As the Detroit Lions gear up for their third preseason matchup, several players face crucial opportunities to prove themselves.
Last season highlighted how important roster depth is for Detroit, with injuries forcing many under-the-radar players into bigger roles as the team still managed to secure another NFC North crown. Fast forward to this summer, and health concerns are already piling up again. Seven players are on injured reserve, while Levi Onwuzurike remains sidelined with an ACL injury.
With more preseason action ahead, the Lions will be counting on lesser-known names to step up. Saturday’s contest against the Miami Dolphins will be particularly important for these six players:
QB Hendon Hooker
The 2023 third-round pick has struggled to keep pace with veteran Kyle Allen, who has led all of Detroit’s scoring drives so far this preseason. Hooker hasn’t produced a touchdown drive yet, making this game a critical moment for his bid to become Jared Goff’s backup. Allen hasn’t been flawless—throwing two interceptions in the Hall of Fame Game—but he’s shown more of what coach Dan Campbell is looking for. Hooker must deliver if he wants to stay in the race.
OT Jamarco Jones
Jones is battling to secure a roster spot after missing time with injury. With Colby Sorsdal and Justin Herron also sidelined, his experience could be valuable for the O-line. Rookie Giovanni Manu has been inconsistent and even missed a recent practice, which should open the door for Jones to get plenty of snaps against Miami. Consistency will be key if he hopes to stick around.
TE Shane Zylstra
With Sam LaPorta banged up, Zylstra suddenly has a golden chance to remind coaches of his value. He carved out a role last season and could do so again if he shows well in upcoming games. Undrafted rookie Zach Horton is making things interesting, but Detroit often uses multiple tight end sets, meaning Zylstra will likely get a real chance to show his worth.
WR Jackson Meeks
The young receiver flashed big-play potential against Atlanta, hauling in a 68-yard catch—the Lions’ longest of the preseason. He’s shown reliable hands in camp and has the size to be a factor. Still, with rookies Isaac TeSlaa and Dominic Lovett competing for spots, Meeks needs to keep stacking performances to remain in the conversation for a roster spot.
S Ian Kennelly
Injuries at safety have opened the door for Kennelly, who’s impressed since camp began. The Grand Valley State product has already made plays, including an interception in joint practices. His physicality and athleticism stand out, and if he continues to perform on both defense and special teams, he could claim a roster spot while also giving the secondary more flexibility.
CB Tyson Russell
Russell has been one of camp’s pleasant surprises. Signed as an undrafted rookie this summer, he’s quickly earned second-team reps. With injuries hitting Ennis Rakestraw and DiCaprio Bootle, he’ll likely see extended playing time in the coming weeks. A strong finish to the preseason could help him land a spot on the final 53-man roster.
