With roster cuts approaching, the Lions are running out of time to settle key position battles. Dan Campbell provided major injury updates and highlighted several players making strong cases to stick in Detroit.
With just three practices remaining in Detroit Lions training camp, including the final practice on Aug. 19 that will be open to the general public, the roster is beginning to take shape.
Detroit has largely avoided significant injuries throughout camp, though the team has dealt with several notable setbacks.
Center Cade Mays suffered a wrist fracture that is expected to sideline him for eight to 10 weeks. Running back Isaiah Pacheco is dealing with a sprained MCL but is expected to be ready for Week 1. Linebacker Jimmy Rolder is working through a leg injury, while cornerback D.J. Reed has been dealing with a soft-tissue injury that is not expected to keep him out for an extended period.
The Lions also placed undrafted free-agent defensive tackle Aidan Keanaaina on injured reserve.
Head coach Dan Campbell spoke with the media following Tuesday’s practice and provided several updates on the team.
Ahmed Hassanein continuing to impress
Campbell said defensive lineman Ahmed Hassanein has had a very good training camp and praised his relentless approach.
“He’s all out all the time,” Campbell said. “He’s grown this year.”
The former sixth-round pick has continued to make his case for a roster spot and appears determined to make the most of every opportunity.
Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch progressing
Campbell said safety Kerby Joseph’s rehabilitation is “going well” and that he remains on what Campbell referred to as the “Branch plan.”
Campbell also said Brian Branch continues to progress well.
Branch is expected to return around early September, and if Joseph remains on a similar timetable, that could be encouraging news for Detroit’s secondary. Both players could potentially remain on the physically unable to perform list into the regular season.
Devin White making an impression
Campbell also had positive things to say about linebacker Devin White.
“I like where he’s at,” Campbell said.
Campbell added that White “looks different than what they say on tape in Vegas from him,” indicating that the coaching staff has been encouraged by what it has seen since White arrived in Detroit.
White backed that up during Tuesday’s practice, recording an impressive pass breakup that ultimately resulted in an interception.
Tate Ratledge won’t play Thursday
Campbell confirmed that offensive lineman Tate Ratledge will not play in Thursday’s preseason opener against the Cincinnati Bengals.
When asked whether playing Ratledge alongside rookie Blake Miller would benefit Miller, Campbell said Ratledge will instead play in next week’s preseason game against Washington.
Ratledge is also expected to take some snaps at center as Detroit continues to evaluate its offensive line combinations in wake of Mays injury.
Erick Hunter showing daily improvement
Rookie undrafted free agent defensive lineman Erick Hunter has also caught Campbell’s attention.
Campbell said Hunter has improved every day since arriving in Detroit and consistently finds ways to make plays.
“He makes plays every day,” Campbell said. “I see growth every day.”
Campbell also noted that Hunter came from a small school and said, “He doesn’t know what he doesn’t know,” highlighting the learning curve the rookie is facing as he adjusts to the NFL.
Roster conversations are coming
Campbell acknowledged that he occasionally talks with general manager Brad Holmes about certain players and plays when asked whether the two have already begun discussing roster cutdowns.
However, Campbell said those conversations will become more detailed as the Aug. 30 roster-cut deadline approaches.
Keith Abney earning trust
Rookie cornerback Keith Abney has also made a positive impression.
Campbell described Abney as “pretty smart and headsy for a rookie” and said he likes where the young cornerback is at in his development.
Campbell particularly praised Abney’s instincts, saying they will always “give him a chance.”
Wide receiver battle heating up
The wide receiver room may be one of the most competitive position groups on the roster.
Campbell acknowledged that it is the best wide receiver room the Lions have had since he arrived in Detroit.
“It’s an all-out battle” for the final roster spots, Campbell said, adding that those positions are “up for grabs.”
Isaac TeSlaa has continued to make impressive catches throughout camp and is making a strong case for a roster spot.
Nick Whiteside continues to make plays
Campbell was also asked about cornerback Nick Whiteside, who continues to make an impression during camp.
“You can’t ignore him,” Campbell said. “It is not too big for him. He doesn’t care who’s across from him. He will compete.”
Whiteside recorded another interception during Tuesday’s practice and continues to emerge as a legitimate contender in the competition for the CB2 role.
With just three practices remaining, every rep is becoming increasingly important as Detroit approaches its preseason opener and the eventual 53-man roster deadline.
