The Detroit Lions commenced their 2025 training camp on Sunday. Although much of the practice unfolded as anticipated, there were several updates regarding injuries and some unexpected changes in the depth chart.
Being the inaugural practice of the acclimation period, the Lions were not equipped with pads, and the session lasted just an hour and a half, marking it as the shortest of the training camp. Following NFL regulations, the team can extend practice times by 15 minutes for the next four sessions, culminating in a two-and-a-half-hour practice on Saturday when season ticket holders are present, with the possibility of wearing shells under their jerseys. After a mandatory day off on Sunday, the Lions will reconvene on Monday, likely in pads and accessible to fans.
Participation Report
At this stage, players’ participation in practice can vary daily. Some may receive rest days due to exertion, while others are transitioning off the pre-camp injury list (PUP and NFI), in addition to those battling new injuries.
For those who missed the updates, we covered various movements on the roster, including:
Most of the players on the PUP/NFI lists were sidelined but present, such as Decker, Alim McNeill, Malcolm Rodriguez, Khalil Dorsey, Miles Frazier, and Stantley Thomas-Oliver. Additionally, Pittman was seen working with trainers and expressed to Pride of Detroit that he is expected to practice on Monday.
First Look at the New Offensive Line
“We need some players to step up on the offensive line,” coach Dan Campbell stated in his morning press conference. “This presents a great opportunity, especially with Frank (Ragnow) and (Kevin) Zeitler gone. We have spots available for players to rise to the occasion and build chemistry.”
Here’s how the Lions’ offensive line structured during the 11-on-11 practice:
LT Dan Skipper
LG Christian Mahogany
C Tate Ratledge
RG Graham Glasgow
RT Penei Sewell
With starting left tackle Decker out due to the Hall-of-Fame preseason game, Skipper took first-team reps at left tackle, while versatile second-year OL Mahogany played left guard, rookie Ratledge remained at center, and veteran Glasgow was positioned inside All-Pro Sewell.
Expected Developments
Generally, practices unfolded as predicted. The connection between Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown remained strong, and tight end Sam LaPorta contributed positively, alongside the offense executing more deep routes.
During first team matchups, one-on-one battles were exciting to watch: Terrion Arnold against Jameson Williams, D.J. Reed versus Tim Patrick, Brian Branch against LaPorta, and Amik Robertson versus St. Brown. Notably, St. Brown repeatedly outperformed Reed, which was a common theme for the last four years—an intriguing dynamic to monitor moving forward.
Unexpected Notes
While the session mostly went as expected, there were several interesting developments worth noting.
Two Running Back Sets
The Lions implemented varied offensive combinations with two running backs on the field simultaneously. Although NFL rules restrict the disclosure of specific plays, the running backs expressed enthusiasm about the potential of these formations.
New Roles on Defense
Pat O’Connor stepped into the 4i role previously held by Onwuzurike for the SAM linebacker, as the team adjusts to missing several key players. O’Connor’s prior experience prepares him for this role.
With Alex Anzalone absent, Zach Cunningham assumed a larger position in the linebacker lineup, alternating between MIKE and WILL throughout different practice setups.
UDFA Highlights
UDFA rookie Ian Kennelly made a remarkable play during the 7-on-7 drills. His effort to thwart a pass intended for veteran Kenny Yeboah drew cheers, emphasizing the depth in the Lions’ safety roster this season.
Other UDFAs also made notable contributions, including Jackson Meeks and tight end Zach Horton, whose versatility positions him as a potential asset for the TE3 role.
Special Teams Insights
While the kicking and punting roles remain stable, the special teams landscape includes new contenders for the personal protector position following Jalen Reeves-Maybin’s departure.
