With just weeks left before the Detroit Lions take the field for the Hall of Fame Game, the front office is making tough decisions on who earns a coveted spot on the 53-man roster. The Lions are coming into training camp with Super Bowl aspirations, meaning the competition is fierce and the margin for error is slim.
Among the most notable calls? Veteran running back Craig Reynolds and wide receiver Ronnie Bell are currently projected out, while younger players like Sione Vaki and Dominic Lovett look poised to step in. At tight end, Shane Zylstra edges out free-agent signing Kenny Yeboah for the final spot thanks to familiarity with the system.
Injuries also play a part: Alim McNeill and Malcolm Rodriguez are expected to start the season on the PUP list, giving other defenders a chance to shine. Meanwhile, newcomers like Terrion Arnold, Tyleik Williams, and Dan Jackson are on track to make an impact early, with Arnold being highlighted as a potential breakout star in the secondary.
The Lions are sticking with two quarterbacks (Goff and Hooker), three running backs, and a robust wide receiver room that includes six pass-catchers. Special teams remains stable with Jake Bates returning as kicker after a standout year.
With camp around the corner, one thing’s clear — the Lions are deeper, tougher, and more unified than they’ve been in decades. Every roster spot counts when a Super Bowl run is the goal.