Lions Preseason Opener Depth Chart: Defense

The Detroit Lions' defense is shaping up to be a solid group based on initial training camp observations.

Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard has plenty of talent at his disposal, and the overall depth of the group has a chance to be a strong point.

With not many starters, if any, expected to play in Thursday's preseason opener, the preseason opener will likely be a showcase of the team's depth on both sides of the ball.

Here's my prediction for the Lions' 2025 defensive depth chart ahead of their preseason opener.

EDGE

Starters: Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport
Backups: Ahmed Hassanein, Al-Quadin Muhammad
Reserves: Nate Lynn, Mitchell Agude, Isaac Ukwu
NFI: Josh Paschal

Hutchinson has been the best defender in camp so far, and looks like he's ready to show that his start to last season was no fluke. Health is the biggest key for Davenport, who can be impactful if he stays healthy.

Thursday night will likely be a showcase opportunity for Hassanein, who plays with a relentless edge and will be eager to get after the quarterback throughout the evening. It will also be a chance for the likes of Lynn, Agude and Ukwu to make a statement as pass-rushers.

Defensive line

Starters: DJ Reader, Tyleik Williams
Backups: Roy Lopez, Pat O'Connor
Reserves: Myles Adams, Chris Smith, Keith Cooper Jr., Brodric Martin, Raequan Williams
PUP: Alim McNeill, Mekhi Wingo, Levi Onwuzurike (Out for season)

Campbell indicated that Tyleik Williams won't suit up, and Thursday's game will likely be headlined by the reserve defensive linemen. Brodric Martin will get an opportunity to show off his ability, and should get plenty of snaps.

Cooper is one of the more exciting undrafted free agents, as he was a defensive end in college who could bring some interior versatility. Smith is a player the Lions have been comfortable calling on in a pinch.

Linebackers

Starters: Alex Anzalone, Jack Campbell, Derrick Barnes
Backups: Grant Stuard, Zach Cunningham, Trevor Nowaske
Reserves: Ezekiel Turner, Anthony Pittman, DaRon Gilbert
PUP: Malcolm Rodriguez

Anzalone has returned to practice amidst his ongoing contract situation, which rounds out a solid trio of linebackers with Campbell and Barnes. Campbell has taken over some of the ownership of the defense and is primed for a big third season.

Cunningham, a veteran who led the league in tackles in his prime, has shown he's still got some solid ability. Stuard is another physical player who will be a special teams standout and should have a role in certain packages defensively. This is one of the Lions' deepest groups, and Rodriguez's eventual will return will add another spark.