By Sunday 
Camp Opens, and the Tryouts Begin
The start of training camp always brings with it a whirlwind of storylines—returning stars, rookie debuts, and the fight for roster spots. For the Detroit Lions, that fight began in earnest on Friday as the team tried out seven free agents ahead of the 2025 season kickoff.
While most eyes were on returning starters and breakout candidates, the front office was busy evaluating fresh talent to bolster their depth chart. The result? Three of the seven hopefuls landed deals and are officially joining the camp roster.
Who Got the Call?
Let’s break down who came in — and who made the cut.
✅ Signed by the Lions:
- Dicaprio Bootle (DB) – A 27-year-old veteran with experience on several NFL rosters, including a Super Bowl stint with the Chiefs. Known for his speed and man-coverage chops.
- Tyson Russell (DB) – A promising young cornerback who flashed enough potential to secure a camp deal.
- Jabari Small (RB) – A familiar name, especially for Lions backup QB Hendon Hooker, as the two were college teammates at Tennessee. Small racked up over 2,100 yards and 26 TDs during his college career.
❌ Not Signed (for now):
- Malik Davis (RB)
- Keenan Isaac (DB)
- Keni-H Lovely (DB)
- Toa Taua (RB)
While they didn’t make the cut this time, training camp is long and full of surprises. Injuries, underperformances, and sudden roster shifts mean doors could reopen.
What This Means for the Roster
These additions aren’t just about plugging holes — they’re strategic moves. Detroit’s backfield is deep, but Small could bring familiarity and trust to Hooker’s reps in camp. And with the secondary being one of the more fluid spots on the roster, Bootle and Russell will have every chance to prove they belong.
Let’s not forget, Dan Campbell’s Lions have built their identity on grit, competition, and depth. This camp is shaping up to be no exception.
Final Word
It’s only the beginning, but Detroit’s early camp moves show a team that’s not taking anything for granted. They’re looking under every rock for guys who can contribute — whether it’s on Sundays or grinding through August reps.
One thing’s clear: these new signees will be ones to watch as the camp battles heat up.