3. LB Derrick Barnes
Amid the drafting of Jack Campbell, Alex Anzalone being a locked in as a starter and any lingering buzz around second-year man Malcolm Rodriguez, it's easy to forget about Barnes. But the 2021 fourth-round pick got starter reps during OTAs, and he has done the same so far in training camp. Campbell took some starting reps as this past week has gone on, and the Lions have linebacker depth the likes of which they have not had in a long, long time.
Whether Barnes wins a starting job or not, at the MIKE or WILL linebacker spot in base nickel, he should have a noticeable role in the Lions' defense this year given the team's propensity to use depth.
After being an edge rusher for much of his college career at Purdue, Barnes is taking a notable development step moving into his third season. It could yield big things if he can assert himself in a tight camp battle.
2. WR Antoine Green
Via John Maakaron of SI.com, Green had a less than ideal day on Friday when the pads came on. He also left practice early due to what may have been heat exhaustion, based on his being tended to by EMTs and being in a cold tub after practice.
"1.) Antoine Green went through rookie growing pains on Day 5. After losing both special teams reps convincingly working against wideout Denzel Mims, Detroit's seventh-round pick had the football zoom through his hands on a second-team rep tossed by Nate Sudfeld. "John Maakaron, SI.com
But some growing pains can be expected from a rookie in the first week of camp and the first day with pads on, leaving aside that Green is a seventh-round pick. Reviews of his work before Friday, from no less an authority than offensive coordinator Ben Johnson (along with beat writers on the ground at camp), were quite good. One rough day won't crush his stock with his coaches. He will be a player to watch during preseason games.
With Jameson Williams suspended for the first six games, the idea Green could push for a solid early season role is not necessarily fresh. More experienced players may have an inherent advantage in the battle, but how Green rebounds from a lackluster practice moving forward makes him someone to watch at Lions' camp.