With the deadline for NFL roster cuts fast approaching, Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell is already grappling with the tough reality that some promising players will soon be released.
Campbell revealed that five or six roster spots remain undecided, emphasizing the challenge they face in making final decisions.
“We’re gonna have to let go of some good players,” Campbell admitted, noting that the players they part with are more than capable of making an impact elsewhere in the league, potentially within the NFC North.
“That’s a hard thing to do, but it also shows where our roster is at to this point. It’s grown a ton. (General manager) Brad (Holmes) has done a hell of a job.”
The Lions and the rest of the league face a 4pm EST deadline on Tuesday (8/27) to trim their roster to 53 players.
Campbell was also asked about how they determine which players might clear waivers and land on the practice squad.
Once again, he credited Holmes for his expertise. “I’ll be honest with you, I lean on Brad for that, 100%. I just go to him and say, ‘What do you think?’” Campbell said, adding, “He has not missed yet.”
As for which positions remain in flux, Campbell pointed to depth at offensive and defensive lines, safety, and wide receiver as areas still under evaluation.
When discussing offensive linemen Kayode Awosika, Kingsley Eguakun, and Michael Niese, Campbell explained the ongoing deliberations.
“Brad and I have gone back and forth over that as well. How many linemen are we keeping? What does that come down to? Is one of those linemen more important than a safety, a depth safety, or does it come down to a fullback/tight end?
“We’re constantly playing that. I know you guys are playing the numbers game – we’re playing it all, too. What’s the best roster? Can one guy handle two spots, or is it worth keeping all three of them?”
Campbell also highlighted another player battling for a roster spot: Mitchell Agude, who recently transitioned from defensive end to strong-side linebacker.
“We like Mitch,” Campbell said. “He’s another guy who just busts his rear, man. He gives you everything he’s got out there. He’s got some rush ability, he’s strong, quick off the edge.
“It’s not necessarily the perfect position for Mitch, but he’s made the most of it, and that’s a credit to him. He can still play the D-end position and really excel at what he does best, so he’s doing a good job. We like Mitch.”
The tough decisions ahead for the Lions reflect just how much the team has progressed since Campbell and Holmes took the reins.
While cutting players with potential is never easy, it underscores the strength and depth of the roster as they head into the new season.
Once considered the laughingstock of the league, it’s crystal clear that these are brand-new times for the Detroit Lions.
They’ve put together a roster so strong that they’re worried division rivals might snatch up some of the players they’re forced to let go.
In other words, these are not your older brothers’ Lions.
What are your thoughts on Campbell’s team heading into the new season? … Do they have what it takes to win the Super Bowl???