The Detroit Lions finalized their 53-man roster and practice squad last week, as they gear up for their Week 1 matchup against the Green Bay Packers.
While most fans were focused on the players who were cut (Hendon Hooker and Brodric Martin) ahead of the roster deadline, the team made a sneaky addition to the 53-man roster. Late last week, the Lions claimed safety Thomas Harper off waivers from the Las Vegas Raiders.
The claim wasn’t a huge needle mover, given that the Lions already have a lot of depth in the secondary. That said, the 24-year-old Harper provides Detroit with another defensive back who has some starting experience and can be utilized on special teams.
When meeting with the media on Friday morning, Lions head coach Dan Campbell highlighted the newly acquired Lion, saying Harper “looks very good on special teams,” per Mike Payton of A to Z Sports.
Lions Safety Thomas Harper Already Making Waves at Practice
Some fans might scoff at a coach saying a guy has impressed on special teams. But it's a way to get on the field right away, and if that player performs well, it could open other opportunities.
As things currently stand, the only other backup safety on the 53-man roster is Daniel Thomas. The Lions signed Thomas to the 53-man roster last week after the Jacksonville Jaguars released him.
The 27-year-old Thomas developed into a special teams ace for the Jaguars over the last few years, compiling seven tackles last season. He played 73 percent of special teams snaps in 2024, which was a career-high.
As for Harper, he appeared in 15 games and made five starts as a rookie last year. Harper had 26 combined tackles, two pass deflections, an interception, a fumble recovery, and a half sack.
The 5-foot-10 safety played 19 percent of defensive snaps, but 65 percent of snaps on special teams. The Lions understand how important special teams are from a kicking perspective (kick and punt), along with coverage.
If you can pin your opponent deep into their own territory to start an offensive drive, it gives your defense an advantage. That said, we’ll see if the young defensive back can make a play or two on special teams in the regular season opener against the Green Bay Packers.