As the countdown to the 2025 NFL season continues, we’re diving deeper into the Detroit Lions’ roster, spotlighting players ranked 80 through 71. These are guys who are on the bubble — some could sneak onto the 53-man roster, others are more likely headed for the practice squad. Either way, they’ve got something to prove in training camp.
80. S Erick Hallett
After spending 2024 on the practice squad, Hallett earned a futures contract and will be in the mix for a backend safety role. At 25, he’s young enough to grow, but with competition stacking up at the position, he’ll have to stand out fast.
79. WR Jakobie Keeney-James
The rookie undrafted free agent made noise with the largest guarantee among Detroit’s UDFA class ($254K). He’s got speed and elusiveness but faces stiff competition from similar-styled players like Kalif Raymond and Dominic Lovett.
78. CB Stantley Thomas-Oliver
Called up late last season, Thomas-Oliver saw just five special teams snaps. With experience and versatility, he could fight for a roster spot — but with depth at corner, it’s an uphill climb.
77. WR Jackson Meeks
Another UDFA wideout, Meeks had a solid rookie minicamp showing. At 6’2″ with good agility and over 1,000 yards at Syracuse last season, he has sleeper potential — but he’ll need a strong camp to stick.
76. QB Kyle Allen
The veteran backup enters his eighth NFL season and might be competing with Hendon Hooker for the QB2 job. He hasn’t started a game since 2022 and isn’t expected to seriously challenge Hooker, but stranger things have happened.
75. EDGE Nate Lynn
Lynn missed all of last season due to injury after flashing promise in camp. He’s healthy now, but with rookie Ahmed Hassanein joining the fold, his path to making the roster just got tougher.
74. OT Jamarco Jones
Jones joined the team late last camp and stuck around on the practice squad. He was elevated twice during the year but could be pushed out again, especially if young lineman Giovanni Manu progresses.
73. WR Tom Kennedy
A camp favorite and practice squad regular, Kennedy is back again. He’s a dependable locker room presence and scout team asset, but unless he shines on special teams, the 53-man roster might be out of reach.
72. LB Ezekiel Turner
Turner was a midseason pickup known more for his special teams prowess than defense. His defensive reps last season didn’t inspire confidence, but 1,900+ special teams snaps in his career give him a chance to stick.
71. EDGE Isaac Ukwu
Ukwu was a preseason standout last year with three sacks and a forced fumble, but he didn’t stick on the 53. He made two appearances during the regular season but mostly stayed on the practice squad. Another strong camp performance could push him back into the conversation.