The Detroit Lions have just one preseason game remaining before they'll have to make some tough decisions. In their 17-13 win over the Washington Commanders on Saturday, the team had several players that stood out and made their case to earn a spot on the team's final roster.
General manager Brad Holmes and the Lions' front office will have to finalize the initial version of their 53-man roster by 6 p.m.
Confirmed details from the source coverage
on the day after their preseason finale against the Indianapolis Colts. Here are risers and fallers following the Lions' second preseason game. RisersDT Skyler Gill-HowardGill-Howard has been one of the most ascending players over the last two weeks on Detroit's entire roster.
He's still relatively new in Detroit having been signed late last week, but there's some upside with this veteran that is certainly worth exploring.WR Tay MartinMartin is a name that has been brought up multiple times by special teams coordinator Dave Fipp, which is an indication that he's getting serious consideration to make the 53-man roster.
The Detroit Lions capped off their 2026 preseason with a 25-16 road win over the Indianapolis Colts, finishing the slate 2-1.
Detroit’s attention will quickly turn to finalizing their 53-man roster by Sunday’s 6 p.m. Leading up to the game, Lions coach Dan Campbell said Saturday’s game would be an opportunity for many players to get some action, with spots still available.
Context that stayed inside the record
The Lions’ defense kept tight coverage and put steady pressure on the pocket, making things tough for the Colts. While the offensive choices might be straightforward for Detroit, the defense could lead to some tough decisions.
Here’s the final Lions stock report of the preseason, highlighting the risers and fallers from Saturday’s win over the Colts.RISERSJoshua DobbsLadies and gentlemen, here’s your QB2.
Special teams coordinator Dave Fipp will likely address this soon, but for now, all eyes are on Bates. Roydell WilliamsRoydell Williams was already a long shot to make the Lions roster or even the practice squad, given all the talent ahead of him.
Fumbling his third carry late in the third quarter likely ended his chances. Honorable mention: I don’t think the Lions will cut Roger McCreary, but getting beaten in coverage by Keenan Allen, who recently joined the Colts, isn’t ideal for a defensive back expected to play important snaps.
