The Detroit Lions enter the post-bye stretch with momentum — but also a huge opportunity. This roster is deep, young, and hungry. With injuries healing and competition heating up, there are a few players who have earned a bigger role moving forward. If Detroit wants to keep its hold on the NFC playoff race, getting these guys on the field more could make all the difference.
Let’s break down three Lions who deserve a serious snap-count bump after the bye:
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1️⃣ Terrion Arnold — CB
Detroit didn’t draft Terrion Arnold in the first round to sit and watch. Every time the rookie is on the field, he flashes instincts, toughness, and confidence that is rare for a young corner. The Lions secondary has had ups and downs, and adding Arnold’s physical style could help tighten coverage — especially down the stretch when playoff offenses go for the jugular. The talent is there. It’s time to unleash it.
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2️⃣ Isaac TeSlaa — WR
This coaching staff loves tough, dependable players — and Isaac TeSlaa checks every box. He’s shown strong hands, great body control, and real chemistry with Jared Goff when given opportunities. With teams doubling Amon-Ra St. Brown and bracketing Jahmyr Gibbs, the Lions need more role players who can consistently move the chains. TeSlaa has worked for everything he’s gotten, and it’s becoming impossible to ignore his impact.
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3️⃣ Al-Quadin Muhammad — EDGE
Quietly? Muhammad has been one of the most efficient defenders when he’s rotated in. He plays with violence, sets a strong edge, and generates pressure with a motor that doesn’t quit. As Detroit chases quarterbacks like Dak Prescott, Matthew Stafford, and Jalen Hurts later this season, depth at edge becomes a weapon. Giving Muhammad more snaps means fresher legs for Aidan Hutchinson — and more headaches for opposing offensive lines.
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Why It Matters
The Lions are no longer a rebuilding story — they’re a contender. Contenders make smart adjustments. Dan Campbell has built a culture where players earn everything they get, and these three absolutely have. More snaps for Arnold, TeSlaa, and Muhammad could give Detroit exactly what they need to close out tight games and punch deeper into the postseason.
This team is already dangerous. But giving the right players a little more opportunity after the bye? That could make them unstoppable.
3 Lions Players Who Must See More Action After the Bye Week
