Detroit Lions: 3 dark-horse candidates to make the final roster

Here are some of lesser-known Detroit Lions who might have a shot at making the final roster

The Detroit Lions will have some tough roster cuts to make this season. Of course, every year, we see some surprises on the final roster.

Here could be a few of them …

1. Offensive Tackle Matt Nelson

Offensive tackle Matt Nelson joined the Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2019. Although he didn’t make the roster last season, he did grab a spot on the team’s practice squad. At Iowa, Nelson played defensive line and made the position change in the NFL.

Nelson has made good impressions before and will look to do it again this year. As a developmental offense lineman, we don’t usually see a lot of praise from the media. However, with limited depth at the position, he has a fighting chance.

2. Wide Receiver Tom Kennedy

Now that wideout Geronimo Allison as decided to opt out and second year receiver Travis Fulgham was cut, slot receiver Tom Kennedy odds have increased. A former professional lacrosse player turned to football with the Lions as an undrafted free agent.

Kennedy was up and down the team last season and appeared in only one game. Regretfully making the obvious connection, he has a lot of similarities to slot receiver Danny Amendola. If Kennedy can progress well, we might see him make the team.

3. Middle Linebacker Jason Cabinda

Despite being buried in the depth chart, middle linebacker Jason Cabinda can push for a roster spot this season. The one-time Hard Knocks star found his way to Detroit after being cut by the Oakland (now Las Vegas) Raiders after his rookie year.

A big knock on Cabinda is that he shows no value at other areas, a reason as to why he was cut by the Raiders. Despite that, if he can prove that he multiple value at different positions and on special teams. It will give the Lions a reason to consider him.