Nick Whiteside keeps making plays, Derrick Moore is turning heads, and Christian Mahogany is back for day 3 of Lions training camp.
Day 3 of Detroit Lions training camp is officially underway, and there has been plenty of news and notes to break down. Overall, training camp has gotten off to a smooth start with only minor injuries, a few roster moves, and several players returning to practice.
Before practice began, the Lions announced they released tight end Zach Horton and re-signed tight end Anthony Firkser. Firkser appeared in seven games for Detroit last season and started four of them while Brock Wright and Sam LaPorta were dealing with injuries. He caught eight of his 10 targets for 53 yards. This marks Firkser’s third stint with the Lions after returning to the team last season when LaPorta went down with an injury.
One of the biggest developments of the day was Christian Mahogany’s return to practice. The third year offensive lineman participated with the first-team offense during several 11-on-11 periods in his first practice back. It’s an important return for Mahogany, who is competing to secure the starting left guard job. Any extended absence could have hurt his chances of securing that role.
After recording three pass breakups on the first day of camp and drawing praise from coaches and media, Nick Whiteside continued his strong performance by intercepting Teddy Bridgewater on an overthrown pass. Bridgewater has had some inconsistent moments during camp, and OTAs, the backup quarterback competition appears to be more open than expected, with Bridgewater still in the front running. Meanwhile, Whiteside continues to strengthen his case for the starting CB2 job as he battles Rock Ya-Sin and Ennis Rakestraw.
Jahmyr Gibbs remained out of practice as he continues his hold-in while seeking a new contract.
Rookie edge rusher Derrick Moore, Detroit’s second-round pick, turned in another impressive practice, according to Colton Pouncy. Moore won multiple one-on-one reps, continuing to flash his pass-rushing ability early in camp.
Pouncy also noted that Jameson Williams has been making contested catches that haven’t consistently been part of his game in previous seasons, another encouraging sign for Detroit’s offense.
Linebacker Derrick Barnes recorded the first interception of training camp and later received high praise from Dan Campbell during his post-practice news conference.
Not everything went smoothly for Detroit. Rookie fourth-round linebacker Jimmy Rolder left practice with what appeared to be a leg injury. He wasn’t the only player to exit early, as defensive tackle Alim McNeill left to have his neck evaluated. McNeill’s departure appeared to be precautionary, and there is no indication the injury is serious.
Campbell also said defensive back Christian Izien, who is dealing with the flu, would not return to practice Friday. The plan had been for Izien to receive first-team reps at nickel before becoming ill. Campbell said the Lions are hopeful Izien will be able to return Monday but noted he is still feeling weak.
After McNeill exited practice, defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo received first-team reps, according to Dave Birkett.
One surprise came during special teams work when punter Jack Fox converted a 48-yard field goal on a day when kicker Jake Bates was not handling kicking duties.
Through the first week of training camp, the Lions have largely avoided any major injuries, making it a successful start. Several rookies have stood out early, while players like Whiteside continue to emerge at positions where Detroit is looking for answers heading into the 2026 season.
