Through training camp and the first preseason game, we are starting to get a clearer picture of which players are most likely to make the Detroit Lions’ 53-man roster.
For me, this is one of the deepest Lions rosters I’ve seen in years, and that could create a difficult situation for the coaching staff. Detroit may have to place talented players on the practice squad who could ultimately be claimed by other teams.
With two preseason games still remaining, here are the four players who have raised their stock the most since training camp began.
Ahmed Hassanein
Hassanein enters his second season with the Lions after missing all of his rookie season due to injury. Detroit selected the edge rusher in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft out of Boise State.
Hassanein made his NFL debut against the Cincinnati Bengals and immediately made an impact, recording four tackles, two sacks, two quarterback pressures and a forced fumble.
With Detroit looking for a consistent pass rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson, Hassanein has put himself in position to earn a legitimate role on the 53-man roster.
Nick Whiteside
From the moment training camp began, Whiteside has been one of the Lions’ standout players. The undrafted rookie has consistently made plays, including multiple interceptions during camp, and has looked far more polished than you would typically expect from an undrafted free agent.
Whiteside also made an impressive pass breakup against the Bengals in his first preseason game after initially getting beaten off the ball.
With Detroit moving on from Terrion Arnold, Whiteside has quickly climbed the depth chart. His continued strong play could give him a legitimate chance to not only make the 53-man roster, but become a starter.
Luke Altmyer
Altmyer entered the offseason as an undrafted rookie quarterback out of Illinois and spent much of training camp competing for the third-string quarterback job.
However, Teddy Bridgewater’s unexpected retirement dramatically changed the situation. Altmyer suddenly found himself competing for the backup role behind Jared Goff.
He looked impressive in his first preseason action, appearing calm and collected while making good decisions and putting together several quality drives.
Detroit also signed veteran quarterback Josh Dobbs, making it a tighter race to win the QB2 role. Still, Altmyer is beginning to make a strong case for a roster spot.
If the Lions place him on the practice squad, there is a legitimate chance another team could attempt to claim him.
Juice Scruggs
Scruggs arrived in Detroit from Houston as part of the David Montgomery trade. The former second-round pick is beginning to make a name for himself as he competes for a significant role on the Lions’ offensive line.
With starting center Cade Mays suffering a wrist injury that is expected to keep him out for several weeks, Scruggs now appears to be the leading candidate to start the season at center.
He has also been competing with Christian Mahogany at left guard, meaning Scruggs could potentially earn a starting role at either position.
If he is not named the Week 1 starting center, Scruggs could still have a legitimate opportunity to win the starting left guard job.
Two Preseason Games Remain
With two preseason games remaining, there is still plenty of time for players to separate themselves from the pack.
One thing is certain, Dan Campbell and the Lions’ coaching staff will have plenty of difficult decisions to make when it comes time to trim the roster to 53 players.