QB Hendon Hooker, DL Keith Cooper Jr. and 10 Detroit Lions Players Battling for Roster Spots in Preseason Finale

“It’s going to be tough. That’s the reality of this process,” Campbell said before Thursday’s joint practice with Houston. “The positive is we’ve got another practice and one more game to separate guys.”

With that in mind, here are a dozen Lions players entering Saturday with a lot on the line:

QB Hendon Hooker
Kyle Allen looks to have secured the backup quarterback role, but Hooker is trying to prove he deserves a third roster spot. It’s been a rocky preseason (16-of-29 passing, 117 yards, two interceptions, two lost fumbles), but he’s set to start against Houston, giving him one last chance to show growth.

WR Dominic Lovett & WR Jackson Meeks
The top five receivers are essentially locked in, leaving Lovett and Meeks to fight for WR6 — or possibly a seventh slot. Meeks has been the standout of the preseason, leading Detroit in catches (11), yards (176), and touchdowns (2). Lovett, however, offers versatility as a slot option and special teams contributor, which could keep him in the mix.

iOL Kingsley Eguakun & iOL Michael Niese
The battle at backup center has flown under the radar but could be pivotal. Eguakun has filled in as the primary reserve since Tryston Colon’s injury, but Niese may get a look at center on Saturday to strengthen his case.

DL Keith Cooper Jr.
Cooper, a rookie minicamp tryout success, has been one of camp’s surprises, earning reps all across the defensive front. The recent return of Mekhi Wingo complicates his chances, though Josh Paschal’s injury may temporarily open the door for him.

EDGE Nate Lynn & EDGE Isaac Ukwu
With Paschal sidelined and Ahmed Hassanein injured, the Lions need depth behind Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, and Al-Quadin Muhammad. Lynn leads the group with seven pressures and a strong pass-rush grade, but Ukwu and others still have time to make a push.

CB Nick Whiteside
Khalil Dorsey’s return limits available spots in the secondary. Whiteside has flashed as a man-cover corner, but his ability on special teams could ultimately determine his fate.

DB Erick Hallett
Hallett’s edge is his versatility — he’s lined up at corner, nickel, and safety during camp. Detroit values multipurpose defenders, but he’ll need to perform well in all areas on Saturday to earn a spot.

S Loren Strickland & S Ian Kennelly
Safety depth remains a question mark. Kennelly has been ahead in recent rotations, but Strickland brings experience in the system. Both are expected to see extensive playing time against the Texans as they battle for the final safety role.