The Detroit Lions added seven new soldiers to Dan Campbell's troops in the 2026 NFL Draft. Then, they added even more young talent to the mix by signing a handful of undrafted free agents, just like every team.
However, unlike their colleagues, they chose not to give those rookies an early taste of the NFL action. Surprisingly, they were the only team in the entire league that chose not to host a rookie minicamp.
When asked about it, Lions general manager Brad Holmes implied that there were more valuable ways to spend time and resources. And while there might be some truth to that, there's a reason why all the other 31 teams are doing it.
Lions may regret their approach to rookie minicamp
"We’re not doing things just to do it just because you feel like you have to do it," Holmes said, per CBS Sports. "...And that’s why some things are, from a calendar standpoint, look like they’re removed, but there are other things that are going to take their place that we feel are going to be more beneficial for us."
Granted, it's not like the Lions are missing a month's worth of practice. Most teams host rookie minicamp for two or three days, and that's it. Also, most of the drills are non-contact, and most of the camp includes heavy tape and classroom work.
Nevertheless, these young men need every single rep they can get to get up to speed, even if said reps aren't at full speed yet. They need to shake off the jitters, get a hold of what it takes to succeed in the NFL, know their coaches and one another, and just get a jump start to their careers. Also, this gives undrafted free agents another opportunity to make a strong impression and earn a roster spot.
The Lions' roster was mostly set at the end of last season, and with a few exceptions, it's hard to believe their rookies will play a ton of snaps early in the campaign. That may have also taken a toll on their plans to host the minicamp. Still, rookie tackles like Blake Miller would certainly benefit from being out there from day one.
At the end of the day, every organization has the right to handle its offseason preparation as it sees fit. That said, this team is entering the season with little to no margin for error, and they will have to find a way to play catch-up with their youngins after everybody else already got some work done.
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