The Detroit Lions have fillde out their practice squad to start the 2023 season, and so far, the group seems to set to offer some nice supplemental depth the 53-man roster.
From offense to defense, the Lions have balanced things out, adding younger players who have impressed during their own training camp as well as others who have stepped up elsewhere.
Even though the players aren't on the active roster, practice squad players can end up being an important piece of the team. They prepare other players week in and out, and often find a way to make the roster when depth trouble/injuries strike.
Dan Campbell talked about the practice squad being an extension of the active roster this past week. Last season, it was a regular thing to see Saturday elevations from the practice squad to the active roster for Sundays.
Talking about the impending construction of the practice squad, Dan Campbell emphasized the importance of that group, noting many will end up playing in games for the Lions this season. Says he doesn't think of it as a 53-man roster, but more a 69-man roster.
— Justin Rogers (@Justin_Rogers) August 28, 2023
The Lions have seen some key players use the practice squad as a gateway to the roster in recent years. Craig Reynolds stepped in as the Lions' lead back for a bit in 2021. James Houston was elevated to the active roster in November last year, and had eight sacks to finish out his rookie season.
This year, there are some players who will have a chance to follow in those footsteps and play a key role for the Lions.
Here are four current practice squad members who could make a difference on the Lions' active roster in 2023.