By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions faced a few unexpected developments during Monday’s second training camp session of the 2025 season.
Cornerback D.J. Reed was noticeably absent from practice, and his status remains unclear. Head coach Dan Campbell, now in his fifth season, didn’t mention Reed among the players expected to sit out during his media session before the workout. Stepping into Reed’s spot, Amik Robertson took first-team reps at boundary corner across from Terrion Arnold.
In another concerning moment, running back Sione Vaki left practice early with what the team is calling a leg injury. The extent of the injury is still being evaluated. Defensive tackle Roy Lopez also exited a drill partway through, although he did not head to the locker room and appeared to remain on the sideline.
Reed joined the Lions this offseason with a significant three-year, $48 million free agent contract. He’s expected to play a major role in the secondary, lining up alongside 2024 first-round pick Terrion Arnold. His debut on Sunday was promising, as Reed made his presence felt by breaking up multiple passes during 7-on-7 drills.
Despite standing just 5-foot-9, Reed brings an aggressive edge and physical toughness that fits well with Detroit’s gritty defensive identity. While he lacks ideal size for the position, his fearless play style allows him to hold his own against bigger receivers.
Looking ahead to this season, Reed has made it clear that he wants to improve his impact in the passing game — particularly when it comes to taking the ball away.
“For me, my emphasis this year is to get the ball,” Reed said in a recent CBS Sports interview. “Last year, it was keep it simple, keep the main thing the main thing. Last year, I didn’t get the ball, I didn’t get no picks. I got PBU’s, but I didn’t get no picks. So this year, that’s what I’m really emphasizing — reading the quarterback, reading three-step, five-step, really playing that game and getting the ball by any means.”