Detroit Lions training camp observations, Day 1: New players, new roles - Pride Of Detroit

What the report says

Pride of Detroit reported that the Detroit Lions began their 2026 training camp on July 29 with a 90-minute practice involving 86 players on the 90-man roster. The opening session featured several new or expanded roles, injury-related limitations and notable roster competitions. Six players did not participate, including five already on injury lists and running back Jahmyr Gibbs. The outlet noted it was not confirmed why Gibbs was absent, while coach Dan Campbell did not address it in his morning news conference and later told ESPN the team would take the situation as it comes.

With Gibbs out, Isiah Pacheco and Sione Vaki both worked with the first-team offense at different points, with Vaki standing out in pass protection during a non-padded practice. At tight end, undrafted rookie Miles Kitselman and converted receiver Jackson Meeks worked behind Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright while Tyler Conklin was sidelined. On the offensive line, Ben Bartch, Juice Scruggs and Miles Frazier all saw opportunities at left guard while Christian Mahogany worked separately, and first-round pick Blake Miller opened at right tackle with the starters.

Defensively, injuries to Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch and Christian Izien created early safety reps for Avonte Maddox and Chuck Clark. At cornerback, D.J. Reed drew positive notice, while Ennis Rakestraw and Rock Ya-Sin appeared to be competing for the second starting spot. Linebacker Jimmy Rolder also received second-team middle linebacker work.

The report matters because Detroit’s first camp practice offered an early look at how the coaching staff may handle depth, position switches and key competitions before preseason games begin, though roles can change quickly as players return and padded practices start.