4 potential surprise cuts for the Detroit Lions

1. RB Craig Reynolds

Reynolds notably played every snap in the first half of the second preseason game against the Jaguars, which seemed like a sign he's a lock for the No. 3 running back job. He didn't get much going on the ground though, compared to Benny Snell (three carries for 15 yards) and less so Jermar Jefferson. I made the case earlier this week, however tentatively, that Reynolds getting the work he did against Jacksonville was a possible showcase for a trade after he had been injured and missed the first preseason game.

Even after his notable showing against the Jaguars, John Maakaron of SI.com suggested Reynolds' status was still tenuous heading into the final week of the preseason. Reports on the ground said Reynolds did well in an intense scrimmage on Tuesday this week, so that seems to be an ideal response to that question--to whatever extent it exists.

Reynolds' competition for the RB3 spot has been dropping off, from Justin Jackson's sudden retirement to Mohamed Ibrahim being injured and waived. But he should get ample run again against Carolina in the preseason finale, likely as the Lions' starting running back, and he may need a good performance to fully lock in his spot on the roster.

It may come down to how many true running backs (leaving aside the decision on Cabinda) the Lions keep on the final 53. But while it seems Reynolds is a stone-cold lock to make it, there's a path to him being a surprise cut that should not be ignored.

Honorable Mention Potential Surprise Cut: DT Levi Onwuzurike