Ex-Lions quarterback signed by Arizona Cardinals
Tim Boyle and David Blough battled throughout training camp for the Detroit Lions’ backup quarterback job. Just a couple weeks after Boyle signed with the Chicago Bears, Blough has signed with the Arizona Cardinals. Blough had been on the Minnesota Vikings’ practice squad, and helped that club prepare for a 34-23 loss on Sunday in Detroit. The Lions have gone with Nate Sudfeld as their backup quarterback this season, although Jared Goff’s good health and outstanding play -- he’s been a top-five quarterback over the last six weeks -- has relegated Sudfeld to the bench. His only two snaps of the season were to take a knee in the victory formation against Jacksonville.
mlive.comBears poaching QB Tim Boyle off Lions’ practice squad
A few months after the Minnesota Vikings signed David Blough to their practice squad, the Chicago Bears have signed Tim Boyle to their 53-man roster. Boyle spent the first 12 weeks of the season on Detroit’s practice squad, where he served as QB3 behind Jared Goff and Nate Sudfeld. Boyle began his NFL career in Green Bay before signing with the new regime in Detroit last year. Boyle was re-signed this past offseason to battle Blough for the backup job, but both wound up getting cut coming out of camp. Detroit hosts Minnesota in Week 14 and Chicago in Week 17.
mlive.comLions not worried about Vikings debriefing QB David Blough: ‘We know what he knows’
ALLEN PARK -- Minnesota Vikings quarterback David Blough spent three seasons with the Detroit Lions, including one year and two offseasons under the current regime. So, it shouldn’t surprise anyone that the Vikings are picking Blough’s brain ahead of their matchup with his former team. ESPN reports Vikings offensive coordinator Wes Phillips confirmed they turned to Blough for information. The first-year Lions offensive coordinator pointed to the NFL being a copy-cat league, saying, “everyone steals plays from each other.”“There are some things David might know situationally about us that -- well, we also know what he knows,” Johnson said. I know,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell was shown saying to someone on the phone.
mlive.comDetroit Lions sign RB Jermar Jefferson to practice squad
ALLEN PARK -- Jermar Jefferson is back with the Detroit Lions. He was signed to the team’s practice squad after getting released the previous day. He rejoins running back Justin Jackson on the team’s practice squad. Jefferson’s addition brings the team’s practice squad to 15 players. The NFL allows teams to elevate two players from the practice squad to play each week.
mlive.comFormer Lions seventh-round pick back with New Orleans Saints
ALLEN PARK -- Dwayne Washington, a 2016 seventh-round running back pick to the Detroit Lions, is back with the New Orleans Saints. Washington agreed to return to the Saints after getting released earlier this week, per the league’s transaction wire. Related: Lions have new backup QB after Tim Boyle, David Blough fail to ‘make the jump’Related: The Detroit Lions can’t stop smiling about Aidan HutchinsonHe had his best season when he was a rookie back in 2016. Washington ran for 265 yards and one touchdown on 90 attempts. Washington played his college ball at Washington.
mlive.comLions have new backup QB after Tim Boyle, David Blough fail to ‘make the jump’
ALLEN PARK -- Brad Holmes offered clarity on the backup quarterback situation and how the Detroit Lions got here. But that backup quarterbacks Tim Boyle and David Blough “just didn’t quite make the jump that we expected.”Boyle entered as the odds-on favorite to be Jared Goff’s top backup. Blough made it through for one night, then was waived to make room for the signing of quarterback Nate Sudfeld. And so, you just got to make some tough decisions and you just got to just find the best solution that you can.”Related: Ex-Lions QB David Blough signed to Minnesota Vikings practice squadRelated: Time for Lions to find a new backup QB after Tim Boyle, David Blough bomb in PittsburghBoyle started three games last season. The Lions signed the backup quarterback after the San Francisco 49ers released him.
mlive.comEx-Lions QB David Blough signed to Minnesota Vikings practice squad
When the Detroit Lions finalized its initial 53-man roster Tuesday afternoon, David Blough made the cut. Blough reportedly is headed to the Minnesota Vikings practice squad, according to the NFL Network. Blough signed his initial NFL contract with the Cleveland Browns as an undrafted free agent in May 2019. The Lions acquired Blough via trade later that August, right before the start of the 2019 season. Due to injuries to former Lions’ quarterback Matthew Stafford, Blough started the final five games of that season, all losses.
mlive.comDungeon of Doom ‘Hard Knocks’ recap: The good and the bad from Detroit Lions cut week
ALLEN PARK -- HBO’s penultimate episode of “Hard Knocks” with the Detroit Lions featured inside looks at the tense process ahead of cut day. Blough was cut Wednesday morning, with the team signing quarterback Nate Sudfeld. Dungeon of Doom hosts Kyle Meinke and Ben Raven break down the latest episode of “Hard Knocks,” with the highs featuring those inside looks inside the halls of Allen Park and the lows revolving around some choices for player features. Subscribe to the Dungeon of Doom wherever you get your podcasts -- Acast, Spotify, Apple, Google -- Follow Benjamin Raven and Kyle Meinke on Twitter. Related headlines:Detroit Lions reportedly signing QB Nate Sudfeld, cutting David BloughLive tracker recap: Detroit Lions trim roster to 53 players on busy cut day‘Hard Knocks’ captures player-led practice, tense moments leading into cut day: Live updates recap‘Hard Knocks’ analysis: Good stuff from Detroit Lions cut week, but not perfect eitherLions want to cool the flames of rookie Malcolm Rodriguez’s growing ‘Hard Knocks’ starPrevious episode:Dungeon of Doom ‘Hard Knocks’ recap: Focus shifts to Lions’ roster bubble, rare preseason win
mlive.com4th Detroit Lions episode of Hard Knocks: The humbling reality of watching players you know got cut
The fourth episode of Hard Knocks featuring the Detroit Lions came with a bit of a sick twist: It focused on players battling to make the roster, while the harsh reality is that just hours earlier, we all found out most of them came up short.
Detroit Lions reportedly signing QB Nate Sudfeld, cutting David Blough
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have a new quarterback behind Jared Goff, coming to terms with veteran backup Nate Sudfeld on a free-agent contract according to NFL Network. Blough initially won the backup job over Tim Boyle, but his spot on the team was tenuous after he struggled through camp and the preseason. Detroit initially went with Blough over Boyle anyway, because Boyle was even worse in the preseason and especially the finale, but continued looking for better alternatives. A former Indiana quarterback, Sudfeld was originally taken by Washington in the sixth round of the 2016 draft. Sudfeld spent last season backing up Jimmy Garappolo and Trey Lance in San Francisco, but did not appear in a game.
mlive.com10 players on the open market who could make sense for Detroit Lions
We’ll run through 10 players who could make sense for the Lions in no particular order. It’s worth noting the Lions started their Wednesday morning by waiving quarterback David Blough and signing former 49ers quarterback Nate Sudfeld. But he’s struggled to stay healthy through his four seasons in the league (37 missed games in four seasons with the Ravens). Lions offensive line coach Hank Fraley deserves praise as one of the best in the league at what he does. EDGE Quincy RocheThe Lions cut James Houston, so maybe they’re in the market for another raw defender.
mlive.comFormer second-round pick among 2 ex-Lions cornerbacks released by Falcons
ALLEN PARK -- The Atlanta Falcons released a pair of former Lions cornerbacks ahead of the roster cut deadline, including former second-round pick Teez Tabor. Tabor’s name is always brought up when combing through former Lions general manager Bob Quinn’s draft misses. He spent camp and the preseason with the team in 2019, then didn’t make it to the season. Tabor logged 34 defensive snaps for the Falcons in Game 1 of the preseason against the Lions. The Falcons also released cornerback Corey Ballentine, who played four games for the Lions last season.
mlive.comFormer fifth-round running back pick for Detroit Lions waived by Eagles
ALLEN PARK -- Jason Huntley, a former fifth-round pick for the Detroit Lions, has been waived by the Philadelphia Eagles. Huntley never played a game for the Lions after going at Pick 172 in the 2020 draft. He didn’t make it past the final roster cuts that year. Related: Live tracker: Detroit Lions have more cuts to make ahead of 53-man roster deadlineRelated: Detroit Lions finalize 53-man roster: QB David Blough in, WR Trinity Benson outThe running back didn’t receive an invite to the scouting combine ahead of the 2020 draft. This past weekend, Huntley took a run 67 yards to the house while breaking a handful of tackles.
mlive.comDetroit Lions finalize 53-man roster: QB David Blough in, WR Trinity Benson out
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have finalized their initial 53-man roster, going with David Blough as their backup quarterback, Craig Reynolds and Jermar Jefferson as their backup running backs, and Kalif Raymond and Quintez Cephus as their backup receivers. Defensive tackle Demetrius Taylor also made it as an undrafted rookie, extending Detroit’s streak of rostering a UDFA to 13 years. This story will be updated momentarily. Parker, Cedric Boswell, Mark Gilbert, Saivion Smith, C.J. MooreInjured reserve: Jerry JacobsSpecialists (3)In: P Jack Fox, K Austin Seibert, LS Scott DalyOut: K Riley Patterson
mlive.comDetroit Lions reportedly cutting QB Tim Boyle, no word yet on future of David Blough
ALLEN PARK — The Detroit Lions are parting with Tim Boyle, according to multiple reports, an expected move after the quarterback completed just 5 of 15 passes in a ghastly performance against Pittsburgh in the preseason finale. With that, David Blough is currently penciled in as the backup behind Jared Goff. He shoveled a short touchdown pass to Quintez Cephus in the final minute to pull Detroit within 19-9 of the Steelers. This staff spent the last 17 months trying to develop the former Packers backup into a viable quarterback, but Boyle rarely looked the part. The Lions have until 4 p.m. Tuesday to file their 53-man roster with the league, then the waiver wire opens on Wednesday.
mlive.comSnap counts: Lions get starters some run while taking close look at bubble players
The Detroit Lions needed to get most of their starters some run while taking one last look at bubble players in the preseason finale. And while it wasn’t that group’s best showing, it’s still an optimism-inducing sight to see those five together. Stenberg did himself a favor with strong showings in consecutive weeks while riding the roster bubble. Jackson was solid enough, with two attempts for 53 yards. Jermar Jefferson had a tough day, with six carries for 28 yards (with a long run of 27 yards).
mlive.comStock report: Who’s trending up or down for the Lions ahead of final roster cuts
The Detroit Lions have a much deeper roster in Year 2 of Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes running the show. Related: Ben Raven’s final Detroit Lions 53-man roster projectionRelated: Kyle Meinke’s final Detroit Lions 53-man roster projection: No backup QBs worth a spot“Tough, it’s going to be tough. And so, when you have better talent, it makes the other talent better, and then it’s just as highly competitive, and you make bigger strides.”Let’s get into one last stock report for the Detroit Lions ahead of the NFL’s cut day:Trending upDL Austin BryantAustin Bryant did a little bit of everything for Detroit’s defense. LB Derrick BarnesLinebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard told us that Derrick Barnes was coming, and then the second-year linebacker put the bows on a strong final two weeks of camp and the preseason. He got it rolling heading into joint practices last week, then kept it going into the final two exhibition games.
mlive.comBen Raven’s final Detroit Lions 53-man roster projection
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have until Tuesday afternoon to trim their roster to 53 players ahead of the new season. But he doesn’t compete with Trinity Benson’s contributions on special teams. Board is a solid option that could be a key special teams contributor if he gets bumped in the depth chart. “... well, there’s always a tie breaker, it’s going to be special teams,” Campbell said on Friday. “That’s the first, and I mean if it’s close at all, it needs to be somebody we know can help us on special teams.
mlive.comDan Campbell on Lions’ backup QBs: ‘We got things answered, and I would leave it at that’
Having said that, it’s hard to read Dan Campbell’s postgame comments as anything other than an indictment of the Detroit Lions’ backup quarterbacks heading into roster cuts. “Here is what I would say,” Campbell said. I think we got things answered, and I would leave it at that.”Campbell said he wanted one of the backup quarterbacks “to step up” in the preseason finale against the Pittsburgh Steelers. “Oh man, obviously not what I would have liked in the first half,” Blough said in the locker room after the game. “I just would say clarity, and then we will see where it goes,” Campbell said about the future of the position.
mlive.comWhat’s being said nationally after Lions end preseason with sloppy offensive showing
The Detroit Lions lost 19-9 to the Pittsburgh Steelers in their final preseason game ahead of upcoming roster cuts and the new regular season. Blough’s touchdown was a 5-yard flick to wide receiver Quintez Cephus with 30 seconds left in the game. The Lions have until Tuesday afternoon to get their roster to 53 players. Wouldn't go further than that right now, but seems clear to me neither will be QB2. — kyle meinke (@kmeinke) August 29, 2022See below for headlines from around the countrySteelers wrap up undefeated preseason despite lackluster offensive performance in 19-9 win over Lions -- Pittsburgh Post-GazetteTrubisky makes case for QB job as Steelers top Lions 19-9 -- Associated PressBlough pitches ahead to Cephus for a Lions TD -- ESPNWho’s rising and who’s falling for the Steelers after the final preseason game?
mlive.comInstant observations: Lions could add new backup QB after Tim Boyle, David Blough bomb in preseason finale
PITTSBURGH -- The Detroit Lions added DJ Chark and Jameson Williams to an offense that returns all 11 starters from the second half of last season. The only real question mark heading into the regular season is at backup quarterback, where Tim Boyle and David Blough have struggled behind Jared Goff. So Dan Campbell gave them both a look with the first team in the preseason finale on Sunday in Pittsburgh. Detroit is second on the waiver list, trailing only Jacksonville, which already has quarterbacks Trevor Lawrence, C.J. Just a friendly reminder that while it wasn’t always pretty for the Lions in the preseason, at least they didn’t have that.
mlive.comLive updates: Detroit Lions face Pittsburgh Steelers in preseason finale
The Detroit Lions are expected to give their starters some run, while taking one last look at the backup quarterback battle in the preseason finale against the Pittsburgh Steelers from Acrisure Stadium. Hit refresh to keep up and follow MLive’s Detroit Lions reporters on Twitter -- @BenjaminSRaven and @kmeinke. David Blough will get another crack at the job after starting last week’s preseason win in Indianapolis. Familiar foe and noted Lions killer in a past life Mitchell Trubisky will start at quarterback for the Steelers. “I mean, somebody needs to step up out of the two and I thought they both progressed last week,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell said of the Boyle-Blough battle.
mlive.comLions or Steelers? Make your picks for the remaining NFL preseason games
The Detroit Lions will play in the final game of the NFL preseason Sunday (4:30 p.m., CBS), as they head to Pittsburgh to take on the Steelers. Last week, the Lions won their first preseason game under head coach Dan Campbell, defeating the Colts 27-26. David Blough got the start at quarterback, completing 16 of 22 passes for 79 yards and one touchdown. Can Boyle lead the Lions to another preseason win? Vote for the Lions-Steelers winner and make your picks for the remaining preseason games starting with tonight’s matchup between the Buffalo Bills and the Carolina Panthers.
mlive.comLions put more on backup quarterbacks ahead of preseason finale: Somebody needs to step up
Boyle is expected to get the start in the team’s preseason finale in Pittsburgh against the Steelers this weekend. “I mean, somebody needs to step up out of the two and I thought they both progressed last week,” Campbell said. I think that’s the best way to say it.”Blough has been with the Lions since the end of the 2019 preseason. He’s undrafted. He’s going into Year 4.
mlive.com6 Hard Knocks takeaways: Fighting ‘Same Old Lions’ culture, better defense, ‘winning is everything’
The third episode of “Hard Knocks” featuring the Detroit Lions had a much happier ending than the second, but there are still plenty of reminders that Dan Campbell faces a steep uphill battle to change the organization’s culture.
How to watch ‘Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Detroit Lions’ Episode 3 | Stream, Channel, Time
ALLEN PARK - Another episode of the critically-acclaimed HBO series ‘Hard Knocks’ is set for Tuesday night, as Detroit Lions fans continue to get an inside look on their team in the build up to the 2022 season. Watch the Detroit Lions on DirecTV StreamOn last week’s episode, viewers received an in-depth look on third-string quarterback, and former Purdue star David Blough, and his relationship with his wife, Olympia Melissa Gonzalez. This week’s episode will feature more camp footage, and coaches conversations, as the team continues to get ready for the upcoming regular season. HARD KNOCKS: DETROIT LIONSEpisode 3When: Tuesday, August 23Time : 10 p.m. ETChannel : HBOStream: DirecTV StreamRelated headlines:Detroit Lions picked to star on HBO’s ‘Hard Knocks’Why the Detroit Lions are so excited to star on ‘Hard Knocks’Buy Lions gear: Fanatics, NFL Shop, Amazon, LidsBuy Lions tickets: StubHub, SeatGeek, TicketmasterStream Lions Games Live: DirecTV Stream, FuboTV, Sling
mlive.comDetroit Lions leaning toward starting QB Tim Boyle in preseason finale
ALLEN PARK -- Detroit Lions quarterback Tim Boyle is no stranger to heading into the preseason finale fighting for depth chart positioning or a roster spot ahead of final cuts. Dan Campbell didn’t outright name Boyle as the starter for the team’s preseason finale against the Pittsburgh Steelers this Sunday. But the second-year head coach said he’s leaning toward it being Boyle to get the nod in exhibition Game 3. The first preseason game, I had some ups and downs. He’s going into Year 4.
mlive.comLions QB David Blough heads into crucial preseason finale after up-and-down showing
ALLEN PARK -- David Blough earned the starting nod in the second preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts, with an opportunity to make his case as the Detroit Lions backup quarterback. Blough put some good tape into existence before ceding to Tim Boyle in the second half. He had a turnover for the second consecutive week when he tried to force one to a tightly-covered Kennedy. But the door was open for Blough, and instead, the battle heads into a crucial preseason finale in Pittsburgh. “I thought Tim Boyle had a good half too,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell said after the game.
mlive.comDetroit Lions roster projection 2.0: Why Tom Kennedy is still on the wrong side of the bubble
INDIANAPOLIS -- Tom Kennedy was the leading receiving in the NFL in the first week of the preseason. Then he caught two touchdown passes the following week, leading the Detroit Lions to a 27-26 win on Saturday afternoon against the Colts. He threw a touchdown pass to Tom Kennedy right before halftime, and completed three straight passes on third-and-long on the drive. The roster is simply better this year, and the Lions could actually use the extra roster spot somewhere else. I know the staff has been really impressed with John Cominsky since acquiring him via waiver claim this year, and I think he’s in.
mlive.comHow to Watch the Detroit Lions vs. Indianapolis Colts - NFL Preseason | Channel, Stream, Preview
The second week of the NFL Preseason is underway, and the Detroit Lions will look to come out on the winning side of things after a tough loss last week, when they travel a little south for a meeting with the Indianapolis Colts. Watch the Detroit Lions on DirecTV StreamThough they fell at home last Friday to the Atlanta Falcons, the Lions showed some positives in their first full-fledged contest. Check out more stories about the Detroit Lions here on MLive. What NFL Preseason (Week 2)Who: Detroit Lions vs. Indianapolis ColtsWhen: Saturday, August 20Time: 1:00 p.m. Channel: FOXStream: DirecTV Stream, FuboTV, SlingBetting: Falcons vs. Lions prediction, odds, and 2022 NFL preseason previewCheck out the NFL standings and results on NFL.com
mlive.comPlayers to watch in Detroit Lions’ preseason game against Indianapolis Colts
INDIANAPOLIS -- Dan Campbell was plain about what he wanted to accomplish this week during two joint practices with the Colts. “Getting them really good work, and see if we can get better in those units. After getting in so much good work this week, Campbell said he intends to sit a lot of his regulars for tonight’s preseason game against the Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. And there’ll be a number of guys that have gotten the load here that will still play in this game. With all that said, it’s going to be really interesting to see how Detroit handles Okudah’s workload against the Colts.
mlive.comIt’s a Hard Knocks life for Detroit, as second episode goes behind scenes of Lions’ preseason loss
Although this year seems like the Lions may be in a different stratosphere as an organization, after blowing week one of the NFL preseason to the Atlanta Falcons, they seem like they’re the same old Lions.
What’s being said nationally after Lions let preseason opener slip against Falcons
DETROIT -- The Detroit Lions let their preseason opener against the Atlanta Falcons slip away in the final minutes, losing 27-23 in front of 40,000-plus announced fans at Ford Field. Backup quarterback David Blough mishandled the handoff, and the Falcons recovered the fumble to take over after the two-minute warning. Bernhardt turned at the last second and made an impressive catch in the end zone to give the Falcons the lead for good. And the defense had one heck of a hard time containing Falcons quarterbacks Marcus Mariota and Ridder. Man, we got a lot of situational football in there, which was good,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell said after the game.
mlive.comLions’ Ifeatu Melifonwu shows growth at safety with solid interception in camp
ALLEN PARK -- Ifeatu Melifonwu showed some of the ability behind the Detroit Lions’ decision to test their second-year defensive back at safety during Thursday’s training camp practice. “(I) drifted back and then the dig came right behind me and I snagged it.”The Lions initially tested the 2021 third-round cornerback pick at safety to open Organized Team Activities. Dan Campbell said he believed the change for Melifonwu -- and Will Harris from safety to cornerback -- would be a permanent thing at the start of camp. “I don’t think there’s that many corners that can go to safety,” Melifonwu said. “It is an easier transition to go from corner to safety than safety to corner, but I feel like just my size, and athletic ability helps, and physicality.
mlive.comDetroit Lions training camp preview: All eyes on Jared Goff heading into make-or-break year
The Detroit Lions are coming off four straight last-place finishes, a franchise worst even for them. The good news is Jared Goff played really well down the stretch last season. DJ Chark and Josh Reynolds weren’t around 12 months ago, and Goff struggled to get the football downfield. It’s a huge year for Jared Goff in Detroit. He threw three touchdowns and six interceptions in three starts last season, and Detroit lost all three games.
mlive.comReturning QBs Tim Boyle, David Blough duking it out for Detroit Lions’ backup job
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions returned their entire quarterback room to some outside surprise this past offseason. Jared Goff remains at the top of the room, with Tim Boyle and David Blough back for another run at the backup position. Two guys that are certainly capable of being in that two spot,” Lions quarterbacks coach Mark Brunell said. That said, it’s hard to ignore the 0-8 combined record with Blough or Boyle starting. That’s one of the reasons why he’s back here with us,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell said.
mlive.comDetroit Lions re-signing QB David Blough too, while Jalen Reeves-Maybin leaves for Texans payday
The Detroit Lions are also re-signing quarterback David Blough, according to ESPN. Blough is the seventh player Detroit has re-signed in the last week, and the second quarterback, joining fellow backup Tim Boyle. That includes big extensions for safety Tracy Walker (three years, $25 million) and pass rusher Charles Harris (two years, $14 million). The only player Detroit has lost in free agency is Jalen Reeves-Maybin, a special teams standout who just agreed to a two-year deal with Houston that is worth $7.5 million and includes $5 million in guarantees. With Reeves-Maybin out in Detroit, the book is closed on the Lions’ 2017 draft class.
mlive.comHow to watch Detroit Lions at Cleveland Browns: Everything you need to know heading into Week 11
The Detroit Lions (0-8-1) are back in action inside the AFC North, drawing the last-place Cleveland Browns (5-5), who are in dire need of a win on their quest for the postseason. Latest line: Lions +12.5 (over/under 42.5 points)HOW TO WATCH (How to watch, stream, listen to every Detroit Lions game in 2021 NFL season)TV network: FOX (Play-by-play: Gus Johnson, Analyst: LaVar Arrington)(For additional viewing options, click here.) IN CASE YOU MISSED ITBig-armed QB Tim Boyle eager to make first career start for Lions; Jared Goff officially doubtfulJared Goff hasn’t practiced all week, spotted in a hoodie at Friday’s session heading into the weekend. Tim Boyle is expected to start, with David Blough serving as his backup. New Lions WR Josh Reynolds expected to make first appearance for team against Browns in Week 11“Look, he’s a long, linear guy.
mlive.comAsk Kyle: What’s the deal with Jared Goff and the future of Detroit’s quarterback situation?
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions snapped the NFL’s longest losing streak, although anyone watching that tie in Pittsburgh knows they haven’t solved their issues. -- @mdriddlenA: Jared Goff was horrendous in Pittsburgh. When they made the trade, the Lions could have gotten out of the Jared Goff business after this season. Alas, we’re forced to watch him run downfield routes and Jared Goff miss him by an acre or two. Try going to 139 straight Detroit Lions games sometime and see what that does to your mental health.
mlive.comDetroit Lions roster analysis: Who’s in, who’s out and what’s next for the 53-man squad
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions announced one of the most unusual 53-man rosters in the league on Tuesday, opting to go with no kickers at all. Here’s a breakdown of who’s in, who’s out and what’s next for this squad in the coming days. That’s a dramatic position change, and the Lions gave him very little time to prepare his mind and body for it. Secondary (10)In: CB Jeff Okudah, CB Amani Oruwariye, CB Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB A.J. Parker, CB Jerry Jacobs, S/CB Bobby Price, S Tracy Walker, S Will Harris, S Dean Marlowe, S C.J.
mlive.comSnap counts: LB Anthony Pittman leads defense, special teams in reps to end preseason
DETROIT -- The final preseason game is all about getting closer looks at players on the roster bubble, with the Detroit Lions taking a long look at linebacker Anthony Pittman in the exhibition finale. Pittman, the Detroit native and former Wayne State standout, led the defense (43) and special teams (14) in snaps in the team’s 27-17 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Pittman is battling fellow inside linebackers Jahlani Tavai, Jalen Reeves-Maybin and Tavante Beckett for work. He said, ‘coach, I feel like inside is where I belong.’ So, we moved him inside and he’s just been doing this. Had the Lions seen enough from the preseason standout or were they trying to get other bodies some looks?
mlive.comStock report: Who’s trending up, who’s not for Detroit Lions ahead of final roster cuts
DETROIT -- The Detroit Lions put the bows on another winless preseason, falling to the Indianapolis Colts 27-17 in their exhibition finale. This post will run through players trending up and those not, heading into Tuesday’s final roster cuts. Trending upDetroit Lions running back Godwin Igwebuike (35) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during their NFL preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts at Ford Field in Detroit, on Friday, August 27, 2021. Detroit Lions wide receiver Quintez Cephus (87) scores a touchdown during their NFL preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts at Ford Field in Detroit, on Friday, August 27, 2021. Related stories:Instant observations: Detroit Lions go winless in preseason again, lose QB Tim Boyle to injury tooDetroit Lions lose 27-17 to Indianapolis Colts to finish preseason winless: Live updates recapWith roster cuts looming, Detroit Lions could lose QB Tim Boyle to thumb injury for ‘some time’
mlive.comWith roster cuts looming, Detroit Lions could lose QB Tim Boyle to thumb injury for ‘some time’
DETROIT -- Quarterback David Blough was making a convincing case for the Detroit Lions to carry him on the 53-man roster. Now an injury to Tim Boyle, the projected backup to Jared Goff, may force the club’s hand. Boyle suffered a thumb injury on his throwing hand in the Lions’ 27-17 exhibition loss on Friday night against the Indianapolis Colts. Boyle started again versus the Colts, but banged his right thumb on a helmet just three plays into the game. Boyle remained in the game for another series, and actually put together his best drive of the preseason.
mlive.comInstant observations: Detroit Lions go winless in preseason, lose QB Tim Boyle to injury too
DETROIT -- The Lions concluded the preseason with a 27-17 loss on Friday night against the Indianapolis Colts, extending their winless exhibition streak to eight straight games. But, well, the Lions have some real concerns there too after losing quarterback Tim Boyle (throwing hand) and offensive lineman Logan Stenberg to injuries against Indianapolis. On his second series, Blough scrambled 9 yards on a broken to play to move the chains on third-and-long. -- In addition to the Boyle injury, the Lions also lost two offensive linemen against Indianapolis. -- Cephus, meanwhile, got the Lions on the board by torching Rock-Ya Sin on a beautiful 15-yard pitch-and-catch on the second series of the game.
mlive.com5 bubble players to watch in Detroit Lions’ preseason finale against Colts
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions wrap up the preseason on Friday night against the Indianapolis Colts at Ford Field. The Lions have given him quality opportunities throughout the offseason to prove he belongs, and Tavai just hasn’t been able to do it. And a week later, “Netflix” scored again. Until the Lions called, he scored in each of their first two exhibitions and now leads them in rushing heading into the finale. Kennedy leads the Lions in receiving during the preseason, although his limitations on special teams could hurt his chances.
mlive.comLions’ Dan Campbell sounds comfortable keeping 3 quarterbacks on 53-man roster
Detroit’s quarterback room is highlighted by starter Jared Goff, with Tim Boyle and Blough battling for the primary backup job. The Lions and the rest of the league must be at 80 players by Aug. 24 and 53 by Aug. 31. I’d start with that if there are three that are worthy of keeping,” Lions coach Dan Campbell said. Another aspect playing to the chances the Lions open the year with three quarterbacks on their roster is the threat COVID still presents. It didn’t get better in Pittsburgh, with Boyle going seven of 15 for only 44 yards.
mlive.comDetroit Lions 53-man roster projection 2.0
ALLEN PARK -- The preseason doesn’t matter, which is refreshing news for the winless Detroit Lions. With that said, here’s our second projection of where the roster stands heading into the final preseason game on Friday against Indianapolis. The Lions have to get their 85-man roster down to 80 players by 4 p.m. Tuesday, before the final cut to 53 on Aug. 31. And with depth still an issue at so many positions, it’s not like Detroit really needs the roster spot elsewhere anyway. Secondary (10)In: CB Jeff Okudah, CB Amani Oruwariye, CB Mike Ford, CB Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB Nickell Robey-Coleman, CB A.J.
mlive.comDetroit Lions have some tough decisions to make at quarterback position
But with the season opener looming just three weeks from today, that’s about all that’s clear about the Detroit Lions’ quarterback situation heading into Week 1. Not including a knee to end the first half, Boyle’s drives net: 17 yards, 4 yards, minus-5 yards, 20 yards and 3 yards. “But as a quarterback, you kinda have to keep the even-keeled mindset of kind of getting the guys going again. Or he’s going be able to (track) it properly in the run game? Or he’s under pressure and he’s going to throw this thing to the defense?
mlive.comSnap counts: Detroit Lions get good look at reserve OL in preseason loss to Steelers
The Detroit Lions rested several veterans and starters in their 26-20 preseason loss in Pittsburgh against the Steelers, with the team getting a good, long look at the reserve offensive line. Matt Nelson, Jonah Jackson, Evan Brown, Halapoulivaati Vaitai and Penei Sewell were the first-team group, with Brown and Nelson playing all 61 offensive snaps. Amon-Ra St. Brown was limited to 11 snaps, opening the door for more bodies to see action. Damion Ratley was back in action too, seeing one target on 11 snaps. He completed seven of 15 passes for only 44 yards on 25 snaps under center.
mlive.comStock report: Who’s trending up, who’s not after Detroit’s sloppy preseason loss in Pittsburgh
The Detroit Lions lost 26-20 to the Pittsburgh Steelers in their second preseason game, despite trailing 23-0 at the start of the fourth quarter. Trending upDetroit Lions linebacker Derrick Barnes talks to reporters after the team's NFL preseason football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021, in Pittsburgh. He’s the truth, without a doubt.”Detroit Lions quarterback David Blough (10) warms up before an NFL preseason football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021, in Pittsburgh. Detroit Lions running back Craig Reynolds (46) runs past Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27) during the second half of an NFL preseason football game, Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021, in Pittsburgh. Detroit Lions quarterback Tim Boyle (12) throws a pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half of an NFL preseason football game Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021, in Pittsburgh.
mlive.comLions and makeshift coaching staff struggle against Bucs
Detroit Lions interim head coach Robert Prince on the sidelines during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Saturday, Dec. 26, 2020, in Detroit. On the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' first possession, they faced third-and-9 from their 19. Chase Daniel completed 13 of 18 passes, but for only 86 yards and never got the Lions past midfield. After a touchback on the kickoff to start the half, Lions running back D'Andre Swift fumbled on first down. That wasn't much fun.”The Lions allowed 588 yards, the second-highest total in team history and the highest in a regulation game.
Brady-led Bucs top Lions 47-7 to end 13-year playoff drought
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady (12) throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Saturday, Dec. 26, 2020, in Detroit. The Bucs (10-5) set a franchise record with 588 yards and snapped the NFL’s second-longest postseason drought behind Cleveland’s 18-year run that can end Sunday. RECORD WATCHBrady has thrown a franchise-record 36 touchdowns and set a personal record with 348 yards passing by halftime. Tampa Bay set team records in points (34) and yards (410) in the first half. Lions: Stafford left the game with an ankle injury after he was 2 of 3 for 17 yards on his only possession.
Lions will hold out hope all week that Stafford can play
The Detroit Lions will hold out hope as long as they can that Matthew Stafford can play at Tennessee with banged-up ribs. Stafford stayed in the game to hand off to Kerryon Johnson for a touchdown on the next play, but was evaluated by the team's medical staff on the sideline. Stafford went toward the locker room, returned to throw passes near the benches before going back out of sight. “That guy loves to play football and it’s going to take a lot to keep him out," Bevell said. STOCK UPThe Lions have missed on a lot of draft picks, but T.J. Hockenson is not one of them.
QB Jones inactive for Giants; McCoy to start at Seattle
(AP Photo/Aaron Doster)The New York Giants will be without starting quarterback Daniel Jones for Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks. Jones was not expected to play because of a hamstring injury suffered last week against Cincinnati. Colt McCoy will make his first start of the season at QB for the Giants. Seattle was without both starting right tackle Brandon Shell (ankle) and backup Cedric Ogbuehi (calf) leaving a major question on the offensive line. ___CLEVELAND-TENNESSEEBrowns: WR Taywan Taylor, WR KhaDarel Hodge, CB Denzel Ward, RB Dontrell Hilliard, S Tedric Thompson, DE Joe Jackson.
Eagles get Jeffery, Sanders back for game against Giants
The NFC East-leading Philadelphia Eagles have gotten healthier on offense in time for another division game. Wide receiver Alshon Jeffery is back in Philadelphia’s lineup against the New York Giants, his first action since foot surgery last year. Running back Miles Sanders, the Eagles' leading rusher, is also back after missing three games with a knee injury. Okung will miss his fifth game this season because of injury, so Dennis Daley starts, protecting Teddy Bridgewater’s blindside. The Buccaneers are playing without left guard Ali Marpet, who will miss his second consecutive game with a concussion.
Stafford on Reserve/COVID-19 list, wife says he's negative
DETROIT – Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford was placed on the Reserve/COVID-19 list, although his wife Kelly said on social media he tested negative. The Reserve/COVID-19 list was created for players who either test positive or have been in close contact with an infected person. Some NFL teams have closed their training centers after players and or staff members tested positive for COVID-19. Three months ago, the Lions removed Stafford from the COVID-19 list after saying he received a false positive test result. Kelly Stafford had plenty to say on her Instagram page in August after the false positive test, lashing out at the league for publicly putting her husband on the list.
Vikings RB Cook up vs. Packers, who keep LT Bakhtiari out
(AP Photo/John Froschauer)Dalvin Cook is back for the Minnesota Vikings from a one-game absence, his injured groin cleared to play in Green Bay. Packers: QB Jordan Love, CB Kevin King, S Raven Greene, RB Aaron Jones, LB Randy Ramsey, OT David Bakhtiari, DL Billy Winn. ___LOS ANGELES RAMS AT MIAMIRams: RB Raymond Calais, OL Brian Allen, WR Trishton Jackson, TE Brycen Hopkins, DL A’Shawn Robinson. Dolphins: RB/WR Lynn Bowden Jr., RB Salvon Ahmed, FB Chandler Cox, CB Jamal Perry, RB Jordan Howard, DE Jason Strowbridge. Bengals: K Austin Seibert, WR John Ross III, RB Joe Mixon, OG Michael Jordan, C Trey Hopkins, OT Bobby Hart, OT Jonah Williams.
Packers without leading rusher Aaron Jones vs. Texans
(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)The Green Bay Packers are without their leading rusher for Sunday's game at Houston after Aaron Jones was ruled out with a calf injury. Cam Erving is back at left tackle with Connor Williams at left guard. Washington will be without left tackle Geron Christian because of a knee injury, so journeyman Cornelius Lucas starts in that spot. ___GREEN BAY AT HOUSTONPackers: QB Jordan Love, CB Kevin King, S Darnell Savage, RB Tyler Ervin, RB Aaron Jones, T David Bakhtiari, DL Tyler Lancaster. Texans: WR Keke Coutee, CB John Reid, LB Peter Kalambayi, T Charlie Heck, TE Jordan Akins.
Undefeated Titans getting healthy after COVID-19 outbreak
The undefeated Titans are healing up from the NFL’s first COVID-19 outbreak. DeCastro will miss his third game of the season after sustaining an abdominal injury last week against Philadelphia. Johnson, Pittsburgh’s second-leading receiver, is out because of a back injury suffered on a punt return last week. Cincinnati also will be missing starting defensive tackle D.J. Eagles: RT Lane Johnson, WR DeSean Jackson, WR Alshon Jeffery, CB Avonte Maddox, S Marcus Epps, LB Duke Riley, QB Nate Sudfeld.