Lions 53-Man Roster Projection After Second Preseason Game

Offensive line (8)

In: Penei Sewell, Taylor Decker, Christian Mahogany, Tate Ratledge, Graham Glasgow, Dan Skipper, Kayode Awosika, Giovanni Manu
Out: Kingsley Eguakun, Justin Herron, Netane Muti, Jamarco Jones, Colby Sorsdal Trystan Colon, Michael Niese, Mason Miller
Injured: Miles Frazier

Detroit's offensive line depth could become a conversation prior to the start of the season. The depth along the interior seems to be acceptable, but if something happens to the starting tackles, the Lions would be in a world of trouble.

EDGE (5)

In: Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, Ahmed Hassanein, Al-Quadin Muhammad, Nate Lynn
Out: Mitchell Agude, Isaac Ukwu
Injured: Josh Paschal

Several of the team's defensive ends have stepped up to prove they are deserving of a roster spot, including Nate Lynn and Al-Quadin Muhammad.

Something to keep an eye is who would be waived or released, if the team decided to bring back Za'Darius Smith.

Defensive line (6)

In: DJ Reader, Tyleik Williams, Roy Lopez, Pat O’Connor, Keith Cooper Jr., Myles Adams
Out: Brodric Martin, Chris Smith
Injured: Alim McNeill, Mekhi Wingo, Levi Onwuzurike

Brodric Martin at least showed he was still on the roster and a player to pay attention to after his solid effort against the Falcons. But, he has not been consistent or available enough to be currently considered a player that has a shot to make the roster.

Linebackers (6)

In: Jack Campbell, Alex Anzalone, Derrick Barnes, Grant Stuard, Trevor Nowaske, Zach Cunningham
Out: Ezekiel Turner, Anthony Pittman, DaRon Gilbert
Injured: Malcolm Rodriguez

Trevor Nowaske offers solid depth and a player that can contribute on special teams. Grant Stuard has been a welcome addition to the roster. Keeping Zach Cunningham provides the team the necessary depth to be comfortable heading into the start of the 2025 season.

Cornerbacks (5)

In: D.J. Reed, Terrion Arnold, Amik Robertson, Rock Ya-Sin, Nick Whiteside
Out: Erick Hallett, DiCaprio Bootle, D.J. Miller, Tyson Russell, Luq Barcoo
Injured: Khalil Dorsey, Ennis Rakestraw

Detroit has added two defensive backs that have quickly made a name for themselves in Detroit. Rock Ya-Sin is making plays regularly and Nick Whiteside had a solid effort against the Falcons.

Others not making it have not showcased they are better then the five selected. Joint practices against the Dolphins will give those on the outside another chance to boos their stock.

Safety (4)

In: Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch, Avonte Maddox, Ian Kennelly
Out: Loren Strickland
Injured: Morice Norris, Dan Jackson

The competition at safety is starting to produce answers. Ian Kennelly and Avonte Maddox are outperforming their teammates and some have been lost due to injury.

Detroit has signed an undrafted free agent every year the past couple of seasons. Kennelly has a legitimate chance to keep the trend going, as his physicality and awareness are a welcomed additioon to Detroit's defense.

Specialists (3) 

In: Jake Bates, Jack Fox, Hogan Hatten

About as a stable a unit as there is the National Football League.