The Detroit Lions have welcomed back one of their intriguing young prospects, fulfilling a promise made earlier this year.
Rookie defensive end Ahmed Hassanein, a sixth-round pick who was released with an injury settlement during the preseason, has officially rejoined the team via the practice squad after completing his recovery. The move reflects the organization’s continued belief in his potential and their long-term investment in his development.
Detroit Delivers on Its Word
When Hassanein was initially waived, general manager Brad Holmes emphasized that the decision was strictly procedural and tied to injury recovery—not a lack of faith in the player. Holmes assured reporters at the time that the team intended to bring him back once he was healthy enough to return to football activities.
“What we wanted to do was find the best path for him to get back on the field when fully healthy,” Holmes explained, via Sports Illustrated. “The injury settlement gave him the flexibility to recover properly. Once that period passed, we knew we’d have the chance to bring him back. He’s going to be a Detroit Lion again—he’s part of what we’re building here.”
Hassanein’s Upside
Coming out of Boise State, Hassanein was viewed as a technically sound but developing edge defender. Scouts noted that while he lacked elite burst or fluidity, his toughness, consistency, and ability to play the run stood out.
A pre-draft scouting report from Pro Football Focus described Hassanein as “a high-effort, physical player who can immediately contribute as a rotational defender. His motor and discipline at the line make him a strong run defender, and with coaching, he can expand his pass-rush repertoire.”
The Lions believe that time on the practice squad will help him refine his technique and adapt to the pro level, potentially earning a larger role later in the season.
Young Defense Taking Shape
While Hassanein’s comeback is a positive sign for Detroit’s depth, another young defender is already making waves — second-year cornerback Terrion Arnold. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard praised Arnold’s impact and highlighted how his physicality fits perfectly with the defense’s identity.
“I learned this from Aaron Glenn, one of my mentors,” Sheppard told reporters, via SI.com. “You can tell what kind of defense you have by how your corners play the run. If your corners are willing to get physical at the point of attack, that tells you everything about your unit’s toughness. Terrion has been outstanding in that regard.”
As Hassanein works his way back into game shape, the Lions continue to showcase a defense built on grit, youth, and a willingness to compete — qualities that head coach Dan Campbell has made the cornerstone of Detroit’s resurgence.
