It didn’t take long for the Detroit Lions to start making tough roster calls after rookie minicamp wrapped up. Among the first moves: parting ways with tight end Caden Prieskorn.
Prieskorn, a 6-foot-6, 246-pound rookie out of Ole Miss, had been seen as a potential sleeper to make the final roster. The Athletic even listed him as one of the top undrafted free agents to watch. But despite his size, sure hands, and ability to box out defenders, concerns over his age (he’ll turn 26 in September) and limited athleticism may have led the Lions to move on early.
To fill the open spots, Detroit added three players who stood out at minicamp: tight end Luke Deal, wide receiver Malik Taylor, and defensive lineman Raequan Williams. Deal, the youngest of the trio, spent six seasons at Auburn and was known more for his blocking than receiving—but at 6-foot-5, 259 pounds, he’s now the biggest tight end on the Lions’ roster.
Taylor brings some NFL experience with 28 career games under his belt, while Williams has bounced around since 2020, logging time with three different teams.
As training camp approaches, these small moves could have big implications. While most of these players are fighting for depth spots, one or two could push for a role behind standout tight end Sam LaPorta.
Lions Cut Ties With Promising Rookie Tight End Post-Minicamp
