Lions highlight 14 standouts in Day 1 of training camp
Detroit opened its sixth training camp under head coach Dan Campbell with a 90-minute practice, noting strong performances from several offensive and defensive players despite a few absences.
Detroit began its sixth training camp under head coach Dan Campbell on Wednesday with a 90-minute, injury-free session conducted in shells rather than full pads. The practice featured notable contributions from a mix of veterans and younger players as the roster adjusted to the absences of running back Jahmyr Gibbs and starting safeties Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch.
Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown opened the 7-on-7 drills with a toe-tapping sideline catch and added two more receptions, while Jameson Williams delivered a contested 40-yard catch that was highlighted as the play of the day. Williams also secured a curl-route reception against tight coverage. Tight end Sam LaPorta, returning from a back injury, participated in roughly 90% of first-team offensive reps and recorded a short catch, indicating his health and readiness.
Cornerback Nick Whiteside, referred to by Campbell as “Old Ironsides,” earned second-team reps after recording three pass breakups in the drills. His performance could influence his chances of making the final 53-man roster, especially after the release of Terrion Arnold left the team with limited depth at cornerback.
On defense, linebackers Jack Campbell, Derrick Barnes and Malcolm Rodriguez handled all first-team linebacker snaps during team drills. Barnes and Rodriguez appeared to solidify their roles, with Barnes showing versatility by shifting between SAM and off-ball positions. The trio responded well to offensive coordinator Drew Petzing’s pre-snap adjustments, even prompting quarterback Jared Goff and lineman Cade Mays to check protections.
Cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. received significant first-team reps opposite D.J. Reed, competing against the Lions’ top receivers despite not recording a break-up. He also served as a gunner on the punt team, reflecting the coaching staff’s confidence in his versatility.
Other players who saw extensive work included defensive back D.J. Reed, who appeared healthy; running back Sione Vaki, who performed well in pass protection; defensive end Tyler Lacy, who took on a starting big-end role; and several offensive linemen such as Juice Scruggs, Miles Frazier and Blake Miller, who filled gaps left by injured or unavailable teammates. Undrafted tight end Miles Kitselman and rookie defensive tackle Aidan Keanaaina also earned first-team reps, indicating potential paths to roster spots.
"Old Ironsides," as Dan Campbell affectionately calls him, may have been the biggest surprise of Day 1.
The day’s drills gave coaches a clearer view of players competing for roster positions as the Lions prepare for the upcoming season.