WR Tom Kennedy
Kennedy is a familiar name in Detroit, having spent significant time with the franchise. He remains on the practice squad, but his track record suggests he’ll be elevated to the active roster multiple times and could contend for a spot on the 53-man roster during the season. His versatility and veteran presence make him a useful option for depth at wide receiver.
OT Devin Cochran
Cochran provides depth at the tackle position, a smart move by the Lions to retain a third tackle behind starters and key backups. He has shown solid summer production and brings experience as a starter and as a swing tackle. Keeping him around gives Detroit a reliable interior depth option without occupying a roster spot on game days.
DT Chris Smith
Smith has earned the Lions’ praise for his work ethic and willingness to do the dirty work in the trenches. Although he’s not a regular in the regular-season lineup, his presence in camp and preseason has drawn attention from coaches who value his gritty, noggin-down style of play. He remains a trusted depth piece on the defensive line.
TE Thomas Gordon
Gordon has quietly put together a productive summer, providing a safe option at tight end behind the top options (Sam LaPorta, Brock Wright, Jackson Meeks, and Tyler Conklin). In a season with several tight end injuries, Gordon’s consistency offers valuable insurance and potential situational use.
WR Lucky Jackson
Jackson was a strong contender for one of the final receiver spots in training camp, with Tay Martin competing for the same role. While Martin secured a roster spot, Jackson remains a compelling depth threat who could be elevated for specific packages or return duties. With the current roster picture, a Week 1 fielding possibility exists for Jackson.
LB Erick Hunter
Hunter has shown potential, but there are questions about readiness for immediate NFL competition. The plan appears to be to continue developing him with the possibility of a later-season or 2027 elevation as he gains experience and polish.
QB Luke Altmyer
Altmyer has shown flashes of potential during the preseason, highlighting his development trajectory. While he has room to grow—particularly in processing and timing—his progress this summer suggests a brighter future. For 2027, his path may be clearer, with a longer runway to refine his game.
OL Mason Miller
Miller’s versatility is on display as he has lined up at multiple spots along the offensive line, including center for the first time in a preseason game. While he’s shown adaptability, the expectation is that his appearance on the active roster won’t come soon. The coaching staff may continue to evaluate his fit across the line as a longer-term project.
DT Ben Stille
Stille has consistently shown up in camp, prompting speculation about a potential 53-man roster inclusion. His reliability and presence make him a candidate for multiple elevations throughout the season, as Detroit values his veteran demeanor and workmanlike approach.
LB Joe Bachie
Bachie’s return to the Lions was a smart move given his consistent effort and leadership in camp. While the roster is crowded at linebacker, Bachie’s performance suggests he could earn multiple elevations this season and remain a steady contributor.
CB Nick Whiteside
Whiteside’s absence from the 53-man roster has raised questions, as many believed he had earned a spot based on his camp performance. There remains a path for him to compete from behind and push for opportunities, given the fluid nature of the roster and other players’ health and performance.
LB Amen Ogbongbemiga
Ogbongbemiga earned praise for special-teams contributions and also showed some presence on defense in the preseason. The team would likely like to continue developing him, with a potential for expanded roles during the season or in future campaigns.
Edge Anthony Lucas
Lucas entered camp as a viable undrafted-free-agent edge who could surprise, but he was outpaced by other players. The coaching staff might look to give him some elevations or role on the practice squad as he continues to develop his tools.
DL Tyre West
West faced a tougher path to making an impact, failing to stand out significantly in camp or the preseason. With draft investments behind him, the Lions will monitor his growth and decide how best to utilize him going forward, which could include development on the practice squad with the aim of future contribution.
Overall, Detroit’s 2026 practice squad presents a blend of veteran know-how and young upside. Some players are positioned to be elevated to the active roster at various points during the season, while others are earmarked for further development in hopes of contributing more meaningfully in 2027 and beyond. The Lions will continue evaluating these talents and adjusting as needed to maximize depth and long-term potential.
Note: The content above reflects the team’s 2026 practice squad landscape, focusing on each player’s role, development trajectory, and potential impact during the season.
