Lions' special teams may give way for surprise additions to 53-man roster

While we have about a week until the Detroit Lions have to shave down their roster to just 53 players, there's plenty of buzz surrounding which standouts from training camp and preseason will stick with the team - or, which players may hit the waiver wire.

Rookies are getting a lot of the attention in that regard, especially the receivers that Detroit brought on via the draft and signings this offseason. Jackson Meeks and Dominic Lovett, specificall y, are still looking to etch a permanent spot with Detroit's offense - or, potentially, their special teams unit as gunners.

That's at least what team reporter Tim Twentyman mentions as potential roles for the two rookie receivers, who have both gotten reps with the special teams unit during training camp and in the preseason.

Lions could keep Meeks, Lovett for special teams assistance

"So, we've got some wide receivers contributing on special teams, which is beneficial because the last time in four years we haven't gotten a lot out of that group other than Kalif (Raymond) as a punt returner. For those guys to be able to help out in a core role, potentially it can help take some off of some other players," said special teams coordinator Dave Fipp about the Lions' new options at gunner according to Twentyman.

It'll be difficult to see a world where Isaac TeSlaa is beat out by either Meeks or Lovett for the role of WR3 behind and alongside Tim Patrick. The two receivers haven't gotten as much burn in training camp with the first team, whereas TeSlaa has begun to get that time.

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Both are excellent options as gunners, though, with Kalif Raymond coming back from injury and likely in need of some balance at the position with other options while he ramps back up to action. Being able to sprint downfield and make plays helps young players like Lovett and Meeks stick with an NFL roster while still learning the ropes of what they ultimately wish to act as - receivers for Jared Goff.

The 53-man roster is going to be interesting depending on whether the Lions want to keep taking chances on a few other former draft picks like Brodric Martin or Hendon Hooker. If both aren't able to make the cut, then Lovett and Meeks suddenly see their chances go up. With the goal of providing some relief to Raymond, it makes sense to keep both.