On deadline day, August 30, the Lions announced a 53-man roster but soon waived backup center Seth McLaighlin and running back Jabari Small, leaving two spots open. Campbell indicated at a morning press conference that the team has a clear plan for filling those openings, while remaining open to competition and potential last-minute changes. He stressed that the organization always keeps an eye on possibilities and adjustments, especially as the season begins.
As the Lions stand with 51 players on the active roster, several hopefuls are making waves on the practice squad and could earn elevations to the active roster as the season starts. The club could turn to practice squad depth for immediate help, particularly if injuries or performance issues arise early.
Center depth is a priority due to a wrist injury that will sideline Cade Mays, who joined the team in the offseason and was expected to start. This setback has elevated Seth McLaighlin as a potential option for Week 1, though his departure from the roster complicates the immediate plan. The Lions could explore options at center, including bringing in a player through a trade or adding a versatile lineman from the practice squad who has stood out during the preseason.
The running back room remains crowded behind Jahmyr Gibbs. Isiah Pacheco’s injury has pushed Campbell to consider a committee approach for the RB2 role, with Jacob Saylors and Sione Vaki both in the mix. Saylors had a strong preseason showing and could be positioned to back Gibbs in Week 1 if the team preserves a balanced backfield. This ongoing competition adds an intriguing layer to the backfield as the season begins.
In the wide receiver and cornerback groups, roster management could involve promoting a practice squad member to add depth. At wide receiver, the Lions have four options, including two starters. A potential elevation could come from the practice squad, with a player such as Tom Kennedy—a veteran in Detroit since 2019—being a likely candidate to add experience and reliability. At cornerback, Nick Whiteside has impressed during training camp and the preseason, making him a plausible candidate for elevation to bolster depth.
Overall, Detroit’s approach combines evaluating internal options and remaining open to external moves to ensure sufficient depth at key positions. The coaching staff’s priority remains competitive and adaptable as the season opens, with a focus on shoring up center depth, addressing the RB2 slot, and ensuring adequate reinforcements at receiver and cornerback if needed.
Key takeaways as Week 1 approaches:
– Center position: Mays’ injury creates a need for a reliable backup; McLaighlin’s earlier presence suggests other options, including potential mid-season acquisitions or practice squad elevations.
– RB2 role: Expect a committee approach, with Sione Vaki and Jacob Saylors in consideration alongside Gibbs.
– Depth players: Practice squad members could be promoted to add needed depth at wide receiver and cornerback, depending on performance and health.
– Plan for adjustments: The Lions will likely monitor and adjust the roster up to and after Week 1, prioritizing flexibility and competition.
This article provides a snapshot of the Lions’ roster considerations as they prepare for the season opener and the possibilities for how the two open roster spots could be filled in the coming days.
