🧨 Battle in the Den: Lions’ Defensive Roster Spots Up for Grabs

Training camp is heating up in Detroit, and while most eyes are on big names and new additions, there’s an intense battle brewing just below the surface—on the roster bubble.

The Detroit Lions defense, which endured a bruising number of injuries last season, is seeing its depth tested early yet again. With veterans recovering and some players starting the season on the Physically Unable to Perform list, the camp has become a proving ground for hungry defenders looking to make the final 53-man roster.

Let’s break down some of the key position battles unfolding right now at Allen Park.

🐾 Edge Rushers: Safe and Shaky

The top of the depth chart is set with Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, and Josh Paschal locked in. But beyond that?

Al-Quadin Muhammad and Ahmed Hassanein both received unanimous “IN” predictions from the Pride of Detroit crew, which suggests strong camp performances so far. On the other hand, Mitchell Agude and Isaac Ukwu got a cold shoulder—zero “IN” votes between them. Sorry fellas, it’s looking like the end of the road unless a major surprise happens.

💥 Defensive Tackle Drama

This group just got real interesting. Levi Onwuzurike is out for at least four games, and Alim McNeill is also on the shelf. That’s opened the door for under-the-radar players like Pat O’Connor, who jumped from OUT to IN on many prediction boards after the injury update.

Meanwhile, Mekhi Wingo seems to be a breakout name—receiving a full 11/11 votes to make the team. Brodric Martin and Chris Smith? Not so lucky—both were unanimously predicted OUT.

⚖️ Linebacker Showdown

If you like your roster battles spicy, look no further than the linebacker group. With Malcolm Rodriguez sidelined and the team historically keeping up to seven backers, the fight for the final three spots is intense.

Trevor Nowaske is the current front-runner, drawing 9 IN votes, likely thanks to his 2024 contributions and familiarity with the system. Anthony Pittman is right behind him with 8, while Ezekiel Turner (4) and Zach Cunningham (2) still have a shot but need to shine now.

🛡️ Secondary Depth Crunch

With Dan Jackson and Rock Ya-Sin leading the bubble predictions for cornerbacks and safeties, it seems the coaches are leaning toward experience and versatility. Ya-Sin brings starting experience, while Jackson was a clean sweep with 11 IN votes.

Meanwhile, fringe players like Loren Strickland and Morice Norris might still squeeze in if the team opts for an extra DB over depth in the trenches.

💬 Final Thoughts: Every Snap Counts

With the defense dealing with injuries and fresh rookies like Tyleik Williams and Terrion Arnold expected to contribute early, this camp isn’t just about who’s good—it’s about who’s ready.

Detroit’s “grit-first” culture means every rep, every special teams drill, every team huddle matters. These bubble battles aren’t just camp filler—they’re shaping the backbone of a defense hoping to take the Lions deep into January this season.

Let the best man bite the kneecap.