Derrick Barnes stole the spotlight, Alim McNeill looks fully healthy, and Dan Campbell dropped key updates on Detroit’s biggest position battles after Day 3 of camp.
Day three of training camp is officially in the books, and the Lions have been firing on all cylinders. Players like Nick Whiteside and Jameson Williams continued to make big plays, while others, including Jimmy Rolder and Alim McNeill, exited practice early.
There was also positive news on the injury front. Christian Mahogany officially returned to practice after being activated from the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list. Meanwhile, Christian Izien remained out with the flu. Izien was expected to return Friday, but the Lions are opting to give him the weekend to recover and now expect him back on Monday.
Following practice, head coach Dan Campbell met with the media to recap the day’s session.
Derrick Barnes continues to impress
Campbell praised linebacker Derrick Barnes, saying his activity level has stood out early in camp despite only a few practices.
“There’s a reason why he’s here, and there’s a reason why we like Barnes,” Campbell said. “He’s an active linebacker.”
Campbell also highlighted Barnes’ discipline and awareness, which were on display when he recorded the first interception of training camp.
Christian Izien update
Campbell said Izien is “hopefully” good to go for Monday after battling the flu.
The head coach noted that Izien is still feeling weak, making it an easy decision to keep him sidelined. With Kerby Joseph currently on the PUP list and Izien competing for a starting role, it makes sense not to rush him back until he’s fully healthy.
Greg Dortch showing his value
Campbell said Greg Dortch’s return ability has already stood out during the opening days of camp.
“Did you see some of the returns he had? His return ability really began to show up,” Campbell said.
Dortch spent the previous three seasons playing under offensive coordinator Drew Petzing with the Arizona Cardinals, where he handled both punt and kick return duties. He appears to be the favorite to handle return responsibilities for Detroit this season, while also competing for snaps in a talented wide receiver room.
Jahmyr Gibbs’ contract situation
Campbell reiterated that Gibbs’ reported back issue is not serious. While there is no significant injury to report, Gibbs remains in a contract hold-in as negotiations continue on a new deal.
Nickel competition taking shape
When asked about the nickel position and whether Christian Izien, Avonte Maddox, Chuck Clark, or Thomas Harper could see snaps there, Campbell said the original plan was for Izien to handle much of the base nickel work.
“Really, the plan was to give Izien some of the base nickel stuff,” Campbell said.
However, those plans have been delayed while Izien recovers from the flu.
“He’s done that before, but that’s on hold until he gets back. He’s really the first guy we think of.”
Campbell also complimented the work Chuck Clark and Avonte Maddox have done together while filling in.
Tyler Lacy’s versatility
Campbell had plenty of praise for defensive lineman Tyler Lacy, calling him “a football guy” and “a pro.”
The next step in Lacy’s development is becoming more comfortable sliding inside to three-technique in nickel packages.
“He’s big, strong, stout, physical. He’s like the perfect big end in base,” Campbell said.
When asked about Lacy lining up over the nose tackle, Campbell added that Lacy has the flexibility and willingness to do whatever is asked of him, even if it isn’t his primary role.
Alim McNeill back to full strength
Campbell emphasized just how important Alim McNeill is to Detroit’s defensive line and believes the veteran is finally back to full health after a healthy offseason.
“He looks like he’s back to how he was. He’s healthy,” Campbell said.
Looking back at McNeill’s tape from last season, Campbell noted that he appeared to be favoring one leg at times, but now “he looks great, he’s moving well.”
Campbell also stressed the importance of winning one-on-one matchups.
“McNeill has to win, and he has the ability to win one-on-one.”
Defensive line philosophy
Campbell said Detroit’s defensive front has a different mindset this season, emphasizing pushing the pocket and collapsing it from the interior, particularly with players like Levi Onwuzurike and Alim McNeill leading the way.
Juice Scruggs’ versatility
Campbell also praised offensive lineman Juice Scruggs.
“I love Juice. He’s a pro. His consistency every day…”
Campbell noted Scruggs’ ability to play center and hinted there is currently no clear-cut backup center on the roster, leaving an opportunity for Scruggs to carve out an important role.
Ben Bartch nearing return
The Lions expect to begin giving Ben Bartch team reps next week, but are being cautious to ensure he is fully healthy before bringing him back into full action.
Campbell added that he doesn’t want to draw too many conclusions about either the offensive or defensive lines until the pads come on. Once the physicality increases, he’ll have a much better evaluation of what those groups are capable of.
