The Detroit Lions enter this season in a privileged position. They have one of the most talented rosters in the game, and they'll face one of the easiest schedules. That's a perfect setting for a much-needed bounce-back season.
That said, even the best things can be improved, and any team is only as good as its weakest link. The Lions are stacked but lack depth in certain positions, which is why the preseason is far from meaningless.
Considering that, there were some positives in the 16-14 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. At least, these three guys may have followed their strong training camp with a solid preseason debut to secure a roster spot.
3 Roster bubble players who may have secured a spot with the Lions
Jacob Saylors
The Lions just made Jahmyr Gibbs the highest-paid running back in NFL history, and they plan to use him as such. That said, Isiah Pacheco is dealing with an injury, and he's had some availability issues in the past couple of years.
Jacob Saylors made the most of every touch he got in the opener. He averaged a whopping 6.9 yards per carry, turning eight rushes into 55 yards, along with three catches for 28 receiving yards. With Sione Vaki looking like the odd man out and Pacheco out, he certainly made a big case for himself.
Luke Altmyer
With Teddy Bridgewater suddenly retiring again, the Detroit Lions' QB2 spot may have become a bit of a concern. They signed a journeyman like Josh Dobbs, a proven veteran who was probably the leading candidate for the job.
That might not be the case anymore. Luke Altmyer looked the part when he was out there, and while he threw two picks, he looked poised and in control for most of the game. He's got solid pocket presence, and the 13-for-22 for 130 yards and 1 touchdown final line doesn't tell the whole story.
Ahmed Hassanein
For years, the Lions have tried to get a running mate for Aidan Hutchinson. Their pass-rushing unit is a perennial concern, which is why watching Ahmed Hassanein keep the momentum going after a strong camp was such a refreshing look.
Hassanein was the best player on the field on Thursday. He wreaked havoc against the Bengals' shaky offensive line, finishing the game with three total tackles and two sacks. The Lions need someone behind Hutchinson and DJ Wonnum, and the 2025 late draft pick is trending in that direction.
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