Ahead of the first preseason game, the Detroit Lions put out an "unofficial" depth chart. Now, ahead of Week 1 against the Kansas City Chiefs and of course down to a 53-man roster, it's time for another "unofficial" depth chart release.
On Saturday, the Lions released said depth chart. It's mostly chalky, but there are some interesting things to note and react to.
Here are some takeaways from the Lions' more official "unofficial" depth chart heading into Week 1.
Top takeaways from Detroit Lions Week 1 depth chart
1. Halapoulivaati Vaitai listed as starting right guard
With a nod to Graham Glasgow's versatility and ability to a be center Frank Ragnow's backup as much as anything, Vaitai is listed as the Lions' starting right guard. Neither guy really outdid the other all summer, so the incumbent wins.
2. Brock Wright the TE1 over Sam LaPorta
LaPorta has clearly been the Lions' best tight end since he arrived, and he was treated like a starter when he might have otherwise played a little in the second preseason game. Spots on the depth chart have to be shown on the field, and LaPorta should play more than any other tight end right away. This feels like a flimsy "unofficial" nod to the veteran Wright.
3. Kalif Raymond also listed as the kickoff returner
Raymond will of course be the Lions' punt returner again this year. But in the absence of a clear name to put there, he's also listed as the kickoff returner right now. Special teams coach Dave Fipp would not name a kick returner on Saturday, but if it's actually Raymond against the Chiefs it would be a mild surprise.
Raymond is also listed behind Josh Reynolds at an outside receiver spot.
4. Derrick Barnes listed as a starter over Jack Campbell
Barnes had an excellent offseason, training camp and preseason, proving plenty worthy of the starting job at linebacker next to Alex Anzalone. Rookie Jack Campbell did not fail to prove worthy of being a starter right away, and his role is sure to be prominent regardless.
The Lions have not given any hint on who will start at right guard, or linebacker next to Anzalone. So we'll see who's actually on the field first against the Chiefs and if it lines up with this depth chart, as much as it may ultimately matter in terms of the linebacker rotation.