The Detroit Lions conducted their inaugural night practice on Day 10 of the 2025 training camp, aiming to mix things up and help players adjust to a varying schedule.
Participation Update
Prior to practice, Coach Dan Campbell informed the media about Ennis Rakestraw and Dan Jackson, both of whom were injured during Sunday’s session. Rakestraw is still under evaluation, while Jackson has unfortunately been placed on injured reserve.
Furthermore, Terrion Arnold and Dan Skipper missed practice again, whereas Kenny Yeboah made his return as expected. Brodric Martin’s absence was unexpected, and the team has not provided an update regarding his condition.
The practice featured short yardage and goal line drills, leading to a highly physical session. Consequently, three players had to exit early for evaluation: Pat O’Connor for a leg injury, Dominic Lovett for an abdominal issue, and Jamarco Jones for an ankle injury.
Tyliek Williams Impresses in Run Defense
Erik – Although Lions first-round pick Tyleik Williams is still honing his pass-rushing techniques (he lost his only one-on-one matchup to Tate Ratledge), his run defense continues to improve daily in camp.
During third-and-short drills, Williams demonstrated impressive strength and agility, successfully pushing through the first-team offensive line to assist in stopping David Montgomery. In 11-on-11 drills, Williams consistently halted Montgomery, leading to minimal gains.
Block of the Day by Isaac TeSlaa
Jeremy – While TeSlaa had challenges in 1-on-1s against Avonte Maddox, he made a notable impact during team drills.
On a play-action pass from Hendon Hooker to Tom Kennedy, TeSlaa quickly became the lead blocker, delivering a powerful block on cornerback Nick Whiteside, allowing Kennedy to score easily. TeSlaa garnered much of the post-play celebration, overshadowing Kennedy.
Lions’ Offensive Tackle Depth Tested
Erik – The Lions are facing ongoing difficulties with injuries at the offensive tackle position, with issues continuing on Monday night.
Starting left tackle Taylor Decker began the season on the PUP list and has returned to practice, but he has not engaged in team drills. Thus far, Dan Skipper has filled in opposite Penei Sewell; however, Skipper’s injury during a preseason game has sidelined him for about a week.
With Skipper out, Jamarco Jones stepped in as the starting left tackle but was forced to leave practice due to injury. Consequently, Giovanni Manu took his place but struggled against the elevated competition.
Marcus Davenport’s Strong Performance
Jeremy – Although Davenport faced off mainly against developmental tackle Giovanni Manu after Jamarco Jones’s injury, he delivered one of his standout practices. I noted at least two sacks during team drills and an additional pressure leading to a throwaway from Jared Goff.
Sione Vaki’s Impressive Return from Injury
Erik – The Lions ideally rotate two running backs per offensive unit, employing Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs with the starters, followed by Craig Reynolds and Sione Vaki with the second team.
Vaki, who sustained a hamstring injury on Day 2 of camp, returned on Day 9. Post-practice, he explained to Pride of Detroit that the team was being cautious with him, expressing his excitement to demonstrate his progress in the upcoming game against Atlanta.
Rare Interception of Jared Goff
Jeremy – While the defense has generally outperformed the offense during camp, interceptions of Jared Goff have been rare. However, the defense managed to force a turnover Monday.
Goff escaped pressure and initially connected with Sam LaPorta on a crossing route. It appeared LaPorta was open until safety Kerby Joseph made a timely intervention. Joseph disrupted the throw, leading to linebacker Alex Anzalone securing the interception.
