The Detroit Lions' training camp is in full swing, and we are beginning to get a better idea of who is going to be in the team's plans this season. As we slowly approach the roster cutdown date, players are earning or losing their spots on the 53-man roster.
One of the players who was on the roster bubble entering training camp was Ahmed Hassanein. Detroit's sixth-round pick from a season ago suffered an unfortunate pectoral injury last season, which kept him from making his NFL debut. He made it clear that he only wanted to play for the Lions, earned his way back onto the team, and is now waiting for his chance.
So far, he has done everything he could to prove his worth to the team. Hassanein was already a fan favorite before ever taking an official snap for the Lions. He has been very appreciative of the organization and has gone above and beyond in expressing his gratitude and loyalty to the team. Now, he is showing that he is more than just the guy who brings the vibes to practice.
Ahmed Hassanein has been an early training camp star
The former Boise State standout has been one of the stars of the camp. He was once again impressive on Thursday. Jeremy Reisman of Pride of Detroit highlighted Hassanein's work, calling it another impressive day in which the defender lived up to "the fan hype."
This sentiment has been shared by other reporters and training camp watchers. The Detroit News' Richard Silva talked about how Hassanein has been settling into a new role as a "big end." This requires Hassanein to be bigger and stronger. It's more of the dirty work rather than going after the quarterback.
Earlier in camp, Hassanein was seen talking to GM Brad Holmes. Afterwards, the Egypt-born defender shared the details of that conversation with reporters. Holmes apparently told him that the defensive end, "you are proving me right by doing what you're doing. The big end role is going to be good for you.... I'm excited for you. You're a football player."
In fact, Lions insider Mike Payton of A to Z Sports even went as far as saying that Hassanein is no longer on the roster bubble. He said that Hassanein, along with fellow defensive lineman Tyler Lacy, has already done enough to earn himself a spot on the 53-man roster.
This is exactly what Lions fans were hoping for last summer when Hassanein showed flashes. He plays a gritty, passionate style of football, which will always get him some love from Dan Campbell and the fanbase. Barring another unfortunate injury, all signs are pointing to Hassanein becoming a factor for the Lions next season.
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