Detroit Lions Receive Several Major Updates Ahead of Week 1
· Yahoo Sports
It is officially Week 1 of the NFL regular season, and the Detroit Lions are preparing to open their season against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday at 1 p.m. at Ford Field.
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Prior to Monday, Detroit had two open spots remaining on its 53-man roster. The Lions filled one of those spots by signing linebacker Joe Bachie, leaving just one roster spot available.
Head coach Dan Campbell may have also provided a major hint about what Detroit could be planning to do with that final spot.
Campbell confirmed that wide receiver Tom Kennedy will play against the Saints in Week 1, although it remains unclear whether Kennedy will be signed to the active roster or elevated from the practice squad.
When Campbell revealed the news, he jokingly responded, “Oh s**t.”
Many Lions fans have speculated that Kennedy could ultimately receive the final spot on the 53-man roster as the team’s fifth wide receiver. Detroit also chose not to bring back Greg Dortch, who appeared to be in line for a return role. Kennedy, however, has previously stepped into return duties whenever injuries have created an opportunity.
Offensive Line Competition Continues
Campbell also provided an interesting update regarding Detroit’s offensive line situation.
Ben Bartch and Christian Mahogany will split first-team reps throughout the week. Campbell said that if neither player clearly separates himself by Friday, both could see significant playing time against the Saints in Week 1.
That will be one of the more interesting position battles to watch heading into Sunday’s matchup.
Kerby Joseph Continues Ramping Up
Campbell also shared an encouraging update on safety Kerby Joseph.
Joseph is currently back in the Lions facility and continuing to work his way back. While he cannot practice until after Week 2, he is able to work out and continue training.
This is significant news, particularly because some fans have questioned whether Joseph will play at all this season. However, his continued progress gives hope that he could eventually return later in the year. With Detroit’s bye week coming in Week 6, that could potentially be an important point in his recovery timeline.
Why Tay Martin Earned a Roster Spot
One of Detroit’s more surprising roster decisions was keeping wide receiver Tay Martin.
Lions wide receivers coach Scotty Montgomery provided some insight into what the coaching staff saw from Martin throughout the offseason.
According to Montgomery, Martin’s movement skills immediately stood out during workouts. He continued to impress once the pads came on, consistently showing that he could win as a run blocker. His blocking ability also translated well to special teams drills.
Martin additionally demonstrated the versatility to play multiple positions within Detroit’s offense, which likely played a significant role in his ability to earn a roster spot.
Lions Receiving Positive Injury Updates
Detroit also received encouraging news on several injured players.
Rookie defensive lineman Derrick Moore, linebacker Jimmy Rolder, and defensive back Christian Izien were all practicing.
Overall, the Lions appear to be gradually getting healthier as they prepare for Sunday’s regular-season opener. At this point, Detroit could enter Week 1 without many significant injury concerns outside of the players already on injured reserve.
With the Saints coming to Ford Field, the Lions are beginning to get healthier at the perfect time as they prepare to officially begin the 2026 season.