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Lions Finalize 14-Player Practice Squad After 53-Man Cut

9/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Detroit Lions cut their roster to 53 players by 6 p.m. ET on Sunday, Aug. 30.
On Monday, Aug. 31, the Lions formed a 14-player practice squad, filling fourteen of sixteen spots.
Quarterback Luke Altmyer and cornerback Nick Whiteside led the new practice squad.
Coach Campbell said the practice squad extends the 53-man roster, enabling player elevation.

History

Historical Context

In 1993 Commissioner Paul Tagliabue approved a five-player practice squad, which the Chicago Bears filled as the NFL’s first formal developmental pool. Subsequent collective-bargaining agreements raised the limit to eight in 2004, ten in 2014, and to 14 players in 2022. Detroit Lions now use that 14-member squad to develop rookies like Luke Altmyer.

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Story summary

The Detroit Lions cut their roster to 53 players by 6 p.m. ET on Sunday, Aug. 30.
On Monday, Aug. 31, the Lions formed a 14-player practice squad, filling fourteen of sixteen spots.
Quarterback Luke Altmyer and cornerback Nick Whiteside led the new practice squad.
Coach Campbell said the practice squad extends the 53-man roster, enabling player elevation.

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