By Blessing 
Camp Highlight: Rookie WR TeSlaa Impresses in Lions’ First Padded Practice
Friday marked the start of padded practices for the Detroit Lions, bringing with it the first real taste of contact for the team this offseason.
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With the preseason opener just days away, intensity ramped up noticeably as players embraced the chance to showcase physicality. Rookie wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa made a splash by getting the better of veteran defensive backs Avonte Maddox and DiCaprio Bootle during drills — a standout moment from a session filled with back-and-forth action.
Linebacker Jack Campbell, entering his third NFL season, continues to cement his role as a defensive leader. After logging 131 tackles last year, he’s become a central figure under defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard.
Reflecting on Friday’s padded session, Campbell noted the importance of maximizing these limited full-contact opportunities.
“It was a good first day in the pads. That’s the biggest transition. In the NFL, you get so much more limited time, so when you’re in [pads], you’ve got to take advantage of it,” Campbell explained. “That’s what you’ve got to do on defense — tackle people. Obviously, it kind of showed today with the first day in pads. We’ve just got to keep improving and get ready for what’s gonna be coming.”
The practice featured high-energy 1-on-1 drills, a heavier focus on run plays, and more aggressive team periods compared to earlier non-padded sessions.
Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson turned heads as well, blowing past Penei Sewell with a sharp swim move. Cornerback Amik Robertson also made noise with a strong pass breakup and an interception.
Fans were welcomed to attend the action on Friday, with another open day scheduled for Saturday. The Lions’ preseason officially kicks off Thursday, July 31, in the Hall of Fame Game against the Chargers.