Detroit Lions hold fourth consecutive padded scrimmage, undrafted rookie Erick Hunter shines

Detroit held a padded scrimmage on Friday, its fourth straight day of in-uniform practice. The format paired the first-team offense with the second-team defense and reversed the matchups on other drives, giving depth players a chance to face starters. Undrafted rookie linebacker Erick Hunter intercepted a pass from quarterback Jared Goff in the first drive and later won both of his special-teams drill reps, prompting a commendation from special-teams coordinator Dave Fipp.

The first drive saw Goff connect with Jameson Williams for a 30-yard gain before a sack by Chris Smith and Joe Bachie. The Lions failed to convert a third-down in the red zone, leading to Hunter’s interception. Subsequent drives featured strong defensive play, including Derrick Barnes forcing a throwaway and Devin White chasing down a toss play after replacing an injured teammate.

First-team offense later scored on a touchdown pass to Jameson Williams after Goff evaded pressure from Alim McNeill and Tyleik Williams. The unit added another touchdown on a short pass to Amon-Ra St. Brown and completed a two-point conversion. Special-teams work included a 54-yard field goal by Jake Bates and a 55-yard attempt that also found the uprights.

Defensive standouts included Aidan Hutchinson, who recorded multiple sacks and pressured the opposing line throughout the session, and Chuck Clark, who broke up several passes and contributed tackles on both sides of the ball. The scrimmage concluded with the first-team offense executing two long touchdown passes to Jameson Williams, though one was nullified after a review for a push-off.

Overall, the practice provided valuable reps for starters and highlighted the impact of several depth players, notably rookie Erick Hunter, who capitalized on his opportunities on both defense and special teams.