Lions defeat Commanders 17-13 in preseason matchup, showcase depth on defense and running back group
Detroit beat Washington 17-13 in its sole home preseason game, highlighting contributions from new edge rusher DJ Wonnum, rookie Derrick Moore and emerging running backs as the team evaluates roster spots.
Detroit held a 17-13 win over Washington in its only home preseason contest, giving coaches a chance to assess players competing for roster spots. Quarterback Josh Dobbs started in place of Jared Goff, while several offensive skill players rested. The Lions' defensive line saw new acquisitions make an impact: DJ Wonnum recorded two tackles and a sack, and rookie Derrick Moore added two tackles, a sack and a forced fumble despite missing earlier preseason action. EDGE rusher Eric O’Neill also contributed two tackles and pressure.
Running back Sione Vaki missed the game due to a back issue, allowing Jacob Saylors to continue his strong showing with 32 yards on six carries. Newly signed Trayveon Williams added a touchdown on 10 carries, and Raheem Blackshear posted 29 yards, intensifying competition for the third-string running back role.
The wide receiver group saw limited production. Cedrick Wilson Jr. left early with a knee injury, prompting concerns from head coach Dan Campbell. Tay Martin and Dominic Lovett each recorded a single catch, while Lucky Jackson and Tom Kennedy added modest yardage, keeping the WR5-WR6 battle open.
Defensively, the Lions relied on their front seven. Rookie defensive tackle Skyler Gill-Howard logged a tackle for loss and helped recover Moore’s forced fumble, and Ben Stille added pressure on the interior line. Linebacker Devin White posted three tackles, and cornerback D.J. Reed recorded four tackles and two tackles for loss. Rookie cornerback Keith Abney II struggled with penalties and coverage, while safety Avonte Maddox and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw each contributed tackles.
The offensive line showed inconsistency without starter Penei Sewell. Larry Borom’s debut at left tackle was shaky, contributing to an early strip sack, while rookie right tackle Blake Miller was late on a pickup. Right guard Tate Ratledge performed solidly, and center Juice Scruggs and left guard Christian Mahogany displayed mixed results. Backups, including Colby Sorsdal and Miles Frazier, faced challenges, and the Lions allowed five sacks overall, with all but the first taken by backup units.