Lions Roster Uncertainty
Detroit Lions Face Crucial Roster Decisions as Three Players' Training Camp Spots Are Uncertain
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The Detroit Lions could head into training camp short-handed, with three players on the bubble and one already gone. The team has cut wide receiver Kyre Duplessis, replacing him with receivers from the UFL, according to SI and Sun Herald.
The Lions have also added veterans Cedric Wilson and Greg Dortch to a growing receiver room. That extra competition makes it harder for young or unproven players to hold a spot, according to Charlotte Observer.
Duplessis Already Cut as UFL Receivers Take His Spot
Kyre Duplessis was the first casualty of Detroit's crowded receiver room. The Lions released him after OTAs — the team's off-season practice sessions — and brought in pass-catchers straight from the UFL, a developmental pro football league. It is a clear sign the front office wants proven production, not potential, according to SI.
With Wilson, Dortch, and a group of four other receivers already on the roster, roster spots are scarce. Every player must earn his place. Duplessis could not, and his release set the tone for what may come next, according to Fresno Bee.
Priestly Faces Uphill Battle Despite All-Big Ten Honor
Tackle Priestly earned All-Big Ten honors in college — one of the top awards a player can get in that conference. But his path to a Lions roster spot is not clear. Concerns about his penalty rate are following him into the pros, according to Sacramento Bee.
The Lions coaching staff is focused on internal competition. That means Priestly must beat out players already in the building. His college résumé helps, but it does not guarantee him a spot, according to Ledger-Enquirer.
Cunningham's Size Points to Guard, Not Wide Receiver
Cunningham came to the NFL as a converted quarterback from Louisville. That kind of switch takes time — and time may not be on his side. He is still learning the wide receiver position, and that learning curve could cost him a roster spot, according to Head Topics.
His build is also raising questions. scouts and coaches see a player whose size looks better suited for offensive guard than wide receiver. If the Lions agree, he may not have a role in Detroit's lineup when camp opens, according to SI.
Lions' Crowded Roster Sets Up Tough Cuts Before Camp
Detroit's receiver room is packed. With Wilson, Dortch, and the four UFL additions all in the mix, the math is simple: someone has to go. The Lions have made clear they will not hesitate to cut players — Duplessis proved that, according to Charlotte Observer.
Priestly, Cunningham, and possibly others are now fighting for the last few spots. Training camp will settle the question fast. For players on the bubble, every rep in practice could be the one that saves — or ends — their Detroit career, according to Sun Herald.
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