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5 players to watch in Detroit Lions first preseason game vs. the Falcons

By Brad Berreman

Lions cornerback Jeff Okudah answers a question from a media member during the first day of training camp July 27, 2022 in Allen Park.
Lions cornerback Jeff Okudah answers a question from a media member during the first day of training camp July 27, 2022 in Allen Park. /
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Credit: Chris Coduto/Getty Images
Credit: Chris Coduto/Getty Images /

2. LB Malcolm Rodriguez

Rodriguez is earning some first and second-team reps in training camp and doing well, as he seems primed to climb the Lions’ linebacker depth chart if he’s allowed the opportunity. He’s not going to start on Friday night, but his game debut will be highly anticipated.

Rodriguez may also make an impact on special teams, but he should get plenty of run on defense over the final three quarters on Friday night–maybe even with the green dot on his helmet as a significant trial run with that.

Rodriguez showed all-around ability in college at Oklahoma State, against the pass and run, and that alone instantly puts him among the most talented linebackers the Lions have. NFL game speed is naturally different, even in the preseason, and the first taste of it is coming for the rookie Friday night.

Rodriguez won’t kill his chances to earn a starting job if he doesn’t have a standout showing against the Falcons. But if he looks good and makes a few impact plays, he’ll become impossible to ignore.

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