Lions kick off 2026 training camp with new player roles and injury updates
Detroit opened camp with a 90-minute practice, noting several players assuming new positions, a few injury reports and the absence of running back Jahmyr Gibbs.
Detroit held a 90-minute opening practice for its 2026 training camp, with 86 of the 90 players on the roster taking part. Five players remained on injury lists and star running back Jahmyr Gibbs did not practice, a situation the team did not comment on publicly. Coach Dan Campbell said after the session that the staff will "take things as they come."
Three injured players – Kerby Joseph, Christian Izien and Christian Mahogany – participated in conditioning work on the training hill before joining defensive backs drills, and Mahogany appeared close to returning, according to Campbell.
On offense, Isiah Pacheco handled running back duties in the walkthrough, but Sione Vaki led the 11-on-11 series, showcasing pass-blocking and blitz pickup. Tight end depth featured rookie Miles Kitselman and former wide receiver Jackson Meeks, who is now listed as a tight end.
"I feel like Coach Dan (Campbell) is trying to give me the best opportunity to compete and make the roster," Meeks said.
Veteran lineman Ben Bartch took first-team reps at left guard, while Juice Scruggs and Miles Frazier received starting opportunities in team drills. First-round pick Blake Miller started at right tackle, with Larry Borom rotating between right and left tackle in second-team reps.
Defensively, Avonte Maddox and Chuck Clark led the safety group, with Thomas Harper, Loren Strickland and Dan Jackson providing depth. Cornerback D.J. Reed impressed with improved speed and conditioning after a hamstring rehab program.
"I did some speed tests back home, and I’m faster, stronger, and have less body fat than I had last year," Reed said.
The camp also featured a competition at cornerback between Ennis Rakestraw and Rock Ya-Sin. Linebacker starters Jack Campbell and Derrick Barnes were joined by Malcolm Rodriguez, while rookie Jimmy Rolder earned second-team reps at the MIKE position.
Edge players Tyler Lacy and Ahmed Hassanein saw increased usage on the defensive line. Hassanein, who transitioned to a larger end role, credited a body-composition program arranged by teammate Aidan Hutchinson for improving his mobility and strength.
"It added so much mobility. It helps me bend, get after the quarterback, stop the run, and be violent," Hassanein said.