Detroit
Lions

The Detroit Lions are finalizing their 53-man roster and constructing their practice squad for the 2026 season, with significant moves impacting the running back and receiver groups. Running back Isiah Pacheco has been placed on injured reserve with a back injury, sidelining him for the first four games. This move necessitates a reshuffling of the backfield, which still boasts Jahmyr Gibbs, Sione Vaki, Jacob Saylors, and Jabari Small. Pacheco's absence raises questions about the team's decision to roster five running backs, a move that generated considerable discussion following roster cuts. In receiver news, the Lions surprised by keeping only four players on the active roster: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Isaac TeSlaa, and Tay Martin. Former Lions wideout Greg Dortch was released and has reportedly landed on the Buffalo Bills' practice squad. The team has also signed Dominic Lovett, a 2025 seventh-round pick, to their practice squad, making him the third receiver on the unit alongside Lucky Jackson and Tom Kennedy. Adding depth to the offensive line, the Lions are signing former Tampa Bay Buccaneers lineman Elijah Klein to the practice squad. Klein, a versatile player who has seen time at guard and tackle, brings 26 game appearances and one start to Detroit. His addition comes as the Lions look to solidify their interior offensive line depth, with Mason Miller and Devin Cochran already on the practice squad. The team did not claim any players off waivers following cuts, indicating confidence in their current roster construction. Tight end Tyler Conklin has been re-signed, filling the roster spot vacated by Pacheco's IR designation. Conklin, who was surprisingly released last Sunday, returns to provide depth and versatility to the tight end room, bolstering the team's ability to utilize heavier personnel packages. His return suggests a strategic plan to maximize offensive flexibility. The Lions also confirmed their 16-man practice squad, including quarterbacks Luke Altmyer, and linebackers Joe Bachie and Ameen Ogbongbemiga. Several players released, including linebackers Troy Reeder and Erick Hunter, have found new homes on other teams' practice squads. The team's roster decisions, particularly at receiver and running back, highlight a youth movement with the Lions now boasting one of the youngest rosters in the NFL, setting the stage for their 2026 campaign.