Detroit’s Monday practice brought several injury updates and plenty of intrigue, with Jameson Williams sidelined, the center battle heating up and the nickel competition still wide open.
Ahead of Monday evening’s practice, Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell took the podium to provide injury updates and answer questions about several ongoing position battles.
Tate Ratledge Getting Work at Center
Campbell addressed Tate Ratledge taking center snaps during Sunday’s practice, explaining that he could potentially be needed at the position if injuries arise.
“One way or another, he’s gonna have to be able to help us there if it comes down to that,” Campbell said.
However, Ratledge likely won’t receive any center reps Monday night. Juice Scruggs and Seth McLaughlin are expected to split first-team reps.
McLaughlin received the starting nod at center during Detroit’s preseason opener against Cincinnati and played particularly well. With Cade Mays sidelined, McLaughlin appears to have a legitimate opportunity to emerge as the Lions’ starting center to begin the regular season.
Jameson Williams to Miss Practice
Jameson Williams will not practice Monday evening after dealing with a minor shoulder issue.
Campbell said Williams “will be good to go,” suggesting the injury is not considered serious. Still, I would expect Detroit to be cautious with its star wide receiver and potentially hold him out of this week’s preseason matchup against the Washington Commanders.
Nick Whiteside Remains Sidelined
Nick Whiteside will also miss Monday’s practice due to a hamstring injury.
Whiteside has already made a strong impression throughout training camp and appears to have a legitimate chance of making the 53-man roster. His continued absence shouldn’t significantly hurt his chances, especially considering how well he has performed when healthy.
At this point, Whiteside appears capable of comfortably landing as the Lions’ No. 3 cornerback or, at worst, their No. 4 option.
Ben Bartch Out Again
Ben Bartch will not practice Monday, another setback for a player who was brought in during the offseason to compete for the starting left guard job.
Bartch’s inability to consistently get on the field has allowed Christian Mahogany to gain ground in the competition. Mahogany also appears to be benefiting from Miles Frazier’s struggles during Detroit’s preseason opener.
With Bartch sidelined, Mahogany has an opportunity to continue separating himself in what remains an important position battle.
Saylors Returns
Running back Jacob Saylors has returned to action and is back on the practice field Monday.
Starters Could See Action Against Washington
Campbell also discussed Detroit’s upcoming preseason matchup against the Commanders, saying that some starters will play but declining to reveal which players will see the field.
That leaves plenty of uncertainty surrounding Detroit’s plans for Saturday’s game, particularly as the Lions continue to evaluate several position battles.
Nickel Cornerback Competition Remains Open
The competition for the starting nickel cornerback job remains wide open.
Campbell said he is happy with the number of players competing for the position and wants to continue evaluating what each player can bring to the defense.
Christian Izien, Keith Abney and Roger McCreary are all competing for the starting role. Abney received first-team reps during Sunday’s practice, giving him another opportunity to make his case for the job.
Alim McNeill Looking Fully Healthy
Campbell also provided an encouraging update on defensive tackle Alim McNeill. Campbell said McNeill looks great now that he is completely out of injury-recovery mode.
For Detroit, getting McNeill back at full strength could be a major boost to a defensive line that will be counting on him to anchor the interior throughout the 2026 season.
