Full Breakdown
Detroit Lions Kick Off 2026 Pad Practice with Heightened Intensity and Emerging Standouts
8/4/2026, 12:32:48 AM
First Padded Practice Overview
The Lions held their first padded session of the 2026 training camp, lasting roughly 90 minutes. Coach Dan Campbell framed the day as the opening of a four-day “intensity” stretch that will separate roster hopefuls from players already slated to make the team. The traditional one-on-one tackling drill was modified to a two-hand-touch contest, a change linked to safety concerns after a 2025 injury to Ennis Rakestraw. Campbell indicated the full tackling component could return later in the week.
Notable Performances
Running back Jacob Saylors seized a larger role after rookie Sione Vaki exited early with an eye injury. Saylors broke a 50-yard run in early 11-on-11 drills and later caught a 40-plus-yard pass for a touchdown, prompting Campbell to note his case for a roster spot. Cornerback D.J. Reed, who recorded two interceptions the previous Sunday, delivered a “big pass breakup” on Amon-Ra St. Brown, reinforcing his resurgence after the departure of Carlton Davis. Edge rusher Ahmed Hassanien drew attention with a primal scream during a one-on-one against Brock Wright and showed pressure in subsequent drills.
Offensive Line Highlights
The offensive line displayed versatility and power. Christian Mahogany, returning from injury, delivered a decisive block that sprung Saylors for his long run. Cade Mays and Miles Frazier impressed on pulling assignments, with Frazier shifting between guard and tackle positions while maintaining endurance. Veteran linemen Penei Sewell and Aidan Hutchinson each recorded two reps in the line-vs-line drills.
Player Availability Issues
Star running back Jahmyr Gibbs remained absent from on-field work, citing a “contract holdout” and responding only with “time will tell” when asked about his return. Campbell emphasized that Gibbs is attending meetings, working in the training facility, and remains “part of us.” Additionally, Sione Vaki’s early exit due to an eye poke created an opportunity for Saylors to receive first-team reps.
Coach Campbell’s Outlook
Campbell stressed that the week’s padded sessions are designed to “break in” players for the remaining three days of high-intensity drills. He reiterated that the roster will begin to separate itself by the end of the week, with the current practice serving as the first step in that process.
