Detroit Lions assess roster after 16-14 preseason loss to Bengals

Detroit lost 16-14 to the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium in the first preseason game of Dan Campbell's sixth year as head coach. The contest featured numerous roster evaluations, as the Lions fielded many players who could earn spots on the 53-man roster.

Defensive end Ahmed Hassanein emerged as a standout, recording two sacks, four tackles, three quarterback hits, two tackles for loss and a forced fumble in 29 snaps. Defensive tackle Skyler Gill-Howard also drew attention after pressuring quarterback Josh Johnson and contributing to a field-goal stop.

Running back Jacob Saylors led the offensive effort with eight carries for 55 yards, including a 27-yard run, and added three receptions for 28 yards. Left guard Christian Mahogany received credit for effective run blocking that helped open lanes for Saylors.

Conversely, wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa dropped two passes, one of which resulted in an interception, raising questions about his role in the upcoming regular season. Cornerback Ennis Rakestraw was targeted repeatedly, allowed several completions and left the game with a minor injury.

Other notable contributors included right tackle Blake Miller, edge rusher Eric O’Neill, defensive back Christian Izien and linebacker Trevor Nowaske, who each posted solid individual plays. The game provided valuable film for coaches as they continue to shape the final roster.

"We saw a lot of effort and some players really stepping up," a Lions spokesperson said after the game.