By Mmesoma 
DETROIT — As the Detroit Lions gear up for the 2025 NFL season, attention has turned to a crucial — but often overlooked — component of the roster: the practice squad. With final cuts looming, the Lions are expected to field one of the deepest, most experienced 16-man practice squads in franchise history.
Head coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes have prioritized depth, experience, and versatility across the board — and the results are showing. Unlike years past, where the practice squad was primarily a developmental unit, this year’s group features multiple NFL veterans with starting experience, making it a true extension of the 53-man roster.
Here’s our final projection for the Lions’ 16-man practice squad, along with analysis of key names and strategic choices:
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Projected 2025 Detroit Lions Practice Squad
Quarterbacks (1):
Tanner McKee – The former Stanford standout showed poise in preseason action and offers developmental upside behind Jared Goff and Hendon Hooker.
Running Backs (2):
Mohamed Ibrahim – A familiar name from last year, Ibrahim returns after rehabbing an injury, bringing tough, between-the-tackles running.
Ronnie Rivers – A versatile back with NFL reps under his belt, Rivers can contribute in a pinch and on special teams.
Wide Receivers (3):
Tre’Quan Smith – A veteran target with playoff experience from New Orleans, Smith adds immediate insurance.
Antoine Green – Flashed in camp but couldn’t crack the final roster; still has upside.
Daurice Fountain – Reliable hands and route-running make him a strong depth option.
Tight Ends (1):
James Mitchell – The 2022 fifth-round pick stays in the mix as a well-rounded backup tight end.
Offensive Linemen (3):
Kayode Awosika – A familiar face who can play guard or tackle.
Matt Farniok – Offers center/guard flexibility.
Obinna Eze – Developmental tackle with size and movement skills.
Defensive Linemen (2):
Brodric Martin – A third-round pick from 2023, Martin continues to develop behind a loaded front.
Chris Smith II – Undersized but explosive off the edge; stashed for situational upside.
Linebackers (2):
Ben Niemann – A savvy veteran who’s played in Super Bowls and can call plays if needed.
Tre Watson – Solid in coverage, can fill special teams needs immediately.
Defensive Backs (2):
Craig James – A reliable cornerback with starting experience and special teams value.
Brandon Joseph – Promising young safety with ball-hawking instincts.
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Veteran Edge Is the X-Factor
What sets this projected squad apart is the experience and readiness of its members. While many teams fill out their practice squads with raw rookies, Detroit is taking a different approach: stacking it with players who could suit up on Sunday if needed.
> “We’re not just developing guys for the future — we want to win now,” Dan Campbell said earlier this week. “Every piece of this team has to be able to contribute.”
With seasoned names like Tre’Quan Smith, Ben Niemann, and Kayode Awosika likely to land on the practice squad, the Lions will have the flexibility to elevate players who know the league and can plug into game plans with minimal prep.
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Strategic Depth for a Contender
The Lions head into 2025 with legitimate championship aspirations. A deep, flexible practice squad allows them to absorb injuries, rest starters, and maintain a high level of play over a long season.
This is not the Lions of old — it’s a team built to compete deep into January, and the strength of its 16-man practice squad proves it.