ALLEN PARK ~ Fans flooded the Meijer Performance Center Monday morning to watch the Detroit Lions gear up in full pads for the first time this training camp. Practice physicality rose as defenders work to earn their positions amidst injuries.
Head Coach Dan Campbell said “we’re about to find out a lot” as players showcase their skills in full equipment. Campbell has noted before that players can’t truly be evaluated until the coaching team can watch them play all-out in pads. The risk of injury rises with intensity which is concerning with an already injured rookie class.
Rookie OT Blake Miller returned after being pulled out of practice Sunday for a minor injury. Campbell said rookie DE Derrick Moore suffered a minor groin strain and is expected back on the field sometime next week. LB Jimmy Rolder will be out “for a while” said Campbell, following a training camp leg injury.
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While injuries are setting some players back, others are proving their potential in practice. Campbell said hometown CB Nick Whiteside has “made plays every day. Special teams and on defense, every day.” His opportunity for first team reps increases as more defensive players are hampered with injuries. LB Devin White was signed to the Lions on Saturday and made his first training camp appearance on the field Monday. White was brought in to provide depth and improve a subpar run defense from last season.
The defensive line will get to show their skills this week without the hesitation of unprotected practice. The coming stretch of padded work will offer the staff its first true look at the defensive front’s readiness.
