With the 2025 season getting ready to kick off this Thursday, several NFL players are getting ready to make their NFL debuts this weekend.
Several more will be a waiting patiently on the practice squad until they are called upon. When the NFL made their final cuts on August 27th, over 1,000 players were released with about 500 re-signing to the practice squad. Below are some Lions on the practice squad that could make their debuts for Detroit further down the line.
6 Lions practice squad members to watch
Michael Niese, Dan Skipper, and Tom Kennedy are all "tenured" veterans who have been with Detroit for several seasons. Look for each one to make an appearance this season or even get promoted when called upon later in the season. It's worth noting that the trio has appeared in 95 games for Detroit in their NFL careers.
WR Jackson Meeks
Meeks put together a solid preseason of 11 receptions for 176 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns, which gave him consideration for a roster spot on the final 53. With the Lions only carrying five wide receivers, elevations for wide receivers are extremely likely with Meeks' debut sure to come at some point.
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RB Jacob Saylors
While the Lions have a dynamic duo in David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, along with special teams ace Craig Reynolds, NFL seasons are long and unkind to running backs. The Lions last year utilized the services of Sione Vaki and Jermar Jefferson as the season came to an end, and will turn to Jacob Saylors when in a pinch to get them to the playoffs healthily.
S Erick Hallett
Hallett was a standout in the preseason, registering 16 tackles during the preseason. Hallett's versatility had caught the eye of the Lions staff, possibly allowing him to push for a roster spot. Hallett's versatility as a nickel, safety, and outside cornerback once injuries hit the secondary will be huge for Detroit.