Five Things We Learned from Lions-Dolphins Preseason Clash

While everyone knows Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery form one of the league’s better duos, the depth backs impressed against Miami. Craig Reynolds’ numbers (six carries for 13 yards) didn’t reflect his effectiveness because penalties erased several good runs. Second-year back Sione Vaki showed a mix of strength and shiftiness, highlighted by a violent run in the two-minute drill. He finished with six carries for 30 yards. Jacob Saylors also stood out with tough, chain-moving runs. Dan Campbell has praised Choice since hiring him, and performances like this show why.

2. Rookie WR Isaac TeSlaa Turning Heads

Expectations for Isaac TeSlaa were modest after Detroit drafted him this spring, given his relatively short time playing receiver and the big jump from Arkansas’ system to the NFL. But he has quickly proven he belongs.

Against Miami, TeSlaa displayed a strong route tree, separation ability, and reliable hands. He caught four passes for 41 yards and a touchdown—the second of his preseason. His highlight came on a double move, where he shielded the defender on a back-shoulder grab from Kyle Allen.

It may be time for Detroit’s coaching staff to get him more involved with three-receiver sets. Tim Patrick will still see plenty of snaps, but TeSlaa looks too promising to keep off the field.

3. Penalties Still a Problem

The Lions had stretches of strong play, but too often progress was erased by flags. Seven penalties in the first half alone slowed momentum. Rookie receivers TeSlaa and Dominic Lovett both dropped passes that stalled drives. Giovanni Manu had a questionable holding call that wiped away a Hendon Hooker touchdown.

Defensively, a sack was taken off the board after Grant Stuard was flagged for hands to the face, and Brodric Martin gave the Dolphins free yards by lining up offsides. Preseason football is naturally messy with young players learning, but Dan Campbell will want to see sharper execution moving forward.

4. CB Nick Whiteside Making a Case

Nick Whiteside once again looked like he belongs. Physical in run support and sticky in coverage, he broke up a pass in Miami’s first series of the second half. His story—going from Saginaw State to fighting for a spot at Ford Field—is the kind of preseason arc fans love. If he keeps progressing, he could force tough roster decisions when cutdown day arrives.

5. Jack Fox Remains Elite

Special teams don’t usually grab headlines, but Jack Fox deserves mention. The All-Pro punter looked sharp, flipping the field with boots of 60 and 63 yards and averaging 42.7 yards on seven punts.

No team wants to settle for punting, but when drives stall, it’s a huge advantage having one of the league’s best punters consistently changing field position.