After a day of respite, the Detroit Lions got back to the hitting on the practice fields in Allen Park on Saturday.
Another capacity crowd was treated to more fantastic action on the field. Both sides of the ball did well, and while there were several standout moments an area of concern could be arising
It was a tough day for the Lions' backup quarterbacks. Veteran Nate Sudfeld and undrafted rookie Adrian Martinez are getting that work behind Jared Goff, as rookie Hendon Hooker works his way back from a torn ACL.
But neither Sudfeld or Martinez have stood out during practice to this point.
Saturday, Sudfeld simpy was not crisp. He tossed a pair of interceptions late in practice, and had an up-and-down day overall. With Martinez likely a better candidate for the practice squad, the pressure on Sudfeld to elevate his play to seize the No. 2 role.
The Lions will get a chance to evaluate game action as the preseason slate starts next week. But if Sudfeld struggles, the next move could be to sign Teddy Bridgewater. The team clearly has interest in Bridgewater, and he is still available.
Here's a look at more observations as the Lions ended the second week of camp.
Training camp notes: Detroit Lions' defensive depth consistently showing
In the last few seasons, the Lions have suffered from not having nearly enough depth across their roster-particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Those days seem to be gone.
From the defensive backfield to the defensive front, the Lions are building the kind of roster that can be sustainable. When the first team comes out, the second team doesn't get pushed around. Starters share the same exuberance that players down the depth chart do, and the practice play doesn't suffer between groups.
Players are noticing this too. Speaking after practice to reporters, defensive lineman John Cominsky said he believes the team's defensive line has just as much talent on the first team as the second.
That dynamic is also seen in the defensive backfield, as underrated players like cornerback Bobby Price and defensive back Will Harris impressed on Saturday. Rookie Brian Branch continues to be a daily camp standout. If injuries come along, the Lions can feel comfortable in the depth they have created.
Sam LaPorta continues to shine
Thus far during Lions' camp, LaPorta has been one of the buzzier young players thanks to his ability as a blocker and a receiver. In person, the rookie tight end looks the part in a big way.
LaPorta had a nice day for the Lions, showing off his pass catching ability multiple times during the day. He not only looked dangerous in the red zone late in practice where he pulled in a score, but helping to move the ball down the field with chunk plays as well.
Much has been made of the Lions lacking a superstar at tight end after dealing T.J. Hockenson. But if LaPorta comes on quickly, he might fill that void immediately. After watching him operate, it feels possible.
Dylan Drummond keeps impressing in Detroit Lions receiver battle
Every season, there is a training camp darling that rises from obscurity to claim the hearts of fans and the attention of the team's decision makers. This year, looks to be be Drummond.
Signed by the Lions after a rookie minicamp tryout, the Eastern Michigan product has continued to stack solid days of practice. Saturday was yet another strong showing for Drummond, who showed off his all-around skills.
Drummond is fighting an uphill battle to make the team in a deep wide receiver room, but he is a player who could shine during the preseason and end up sticking around.