The Detroit Lions wrapped up their preseason with a 26-7 loss to the Houston Texans, closing out a four-game exhibition slate that clarified several roster battles. While some veterans solidified their roles, a number of bubble players failed to take advantage of their opportunities. Here’s a look at how Detroit’s final 53-man roster could shake out:
Quarterbacks (2)
In: Jared Goff, Kyle Allen
Out: Hendon Hooker
Allen’s sharp preseason — capped by a 5-for-5, touchdown-scoring drive in the finale — gave him a clear edge over Hooker, who struggled to produce points. The 2023 third-round pick hasn’t shown enough to warrant a developmental roster spot at this stage.
Running Backs (4)
In: Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery, Craig Reynolds, Sione Vaki
Reynolds’ experience and Vaki’s special teams versatility secure their roles behind the clear top duo of Gibbs and Montgomery.
Wide Receivers (6)
In: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Tim Patrick, Kalif Raymond, Isaac TeSlaa, Dominic Lovett
Lovett’s upside on special teams edges out Jackson Meeks, who could still stick around on the practice squad. The core of St. Brown, Williams, and Raymond is set in stone.
Tight Ends (3)
In: Sam LaPorta, Brock Wright, Shane Zylstra
Zylstra earns the final spot thanks to his experience and versatility, with Zach Horton a likely practice-squad stash.
Offensive Line (9)
In: Graham Glasgow, Tate Ratledge, Christian Mahogany, Penei Sewell, Taylor Decker, Dan Skipper, Kayode Awosika, Giovanni Manu, Netane Muti
The starting five are established. Skipper is trusted as the swing tackle, while Ratledge provides interior depth at center.
EDGE (5)
In: Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, Ahmed Hassanein, Al-Quadin Muhammad, Nate Lynn
Hassanein may be shifted to injured reserve after final cuts, but Lynn has shown enough consistency to secure a roster spot.
Defensive Tackles (5)
In: DJ Reader, Roy Lopez, Tyleik Williams, Pat O’Connor, Mekhi Wingo
Wingo’s return pushes Keith Cooper Jr. off the roster, though Cooper and others remain practice-squad candidates.
Linebackers (7)
In: Jack Campbell, Alex Anzalone, Derrick Barnes, Grant Stuard, Trevor Nowaske, Zach Cunningham, Anthony Pittman
Detroit loads up at linebacker because of special teams needs. Injuries to Malcolm Rodriguez and Ezekiel Turner influenced these choices.
Cornerbacks (5)
In: D.J. Reed, Terrion Arnold, Amik Robertson, Avonte Maddox, Khalil Dorsey
Dorsey’s recovery makes him a lock as a gunner on special teams. With Rock Ya-Sin sliding to safety, the Lions keep one fewer corner.
Safeties (4)
In: Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch, Rock Ya-Sin, Loren Strickland
Strickland’s physical play earns him the final spot, while Ya-Sin provides needed flexibility after transitioning to safety.
Specialists (3)
In: Jake Bates, Jack Fox, Hogan Hatten
Detroit didn’t bring in challengers, leaving this group untouched.
Final Thoughts
General manager Brad Holmes faces a few tough calls, most notably at quarterback and receiver. Hendon Hooker may be the biggest name left off, while Jackson Meeks is a prime practice-squad candidate. Overall, the Lions appear deeper than in past years, with stronger competition across the roster — a positive sign as the team turns its attention to the regular season.
