As the Detroit Lions wrapped up their preseason with a 25-16 victory over the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on August 29, 2026, the coaching staff now faces the difficult task of trimming the roster to 53 players. For many players on the bubble, the preseason finale was their last chance to make an impression—not just for a roster spot, but also for a coveted place on the practice squad. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, several Lions used this final audition to significantly improve their chances of sticking around in Detroit, even if they don't make the initial 53-man roster.
Wide Receiver: Lucky Jackson Shines Bright
With the wide receiver depth chart behind Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Isaac TeSlaa, and Greg Dortch still wide open, Lucky Jackson made a compelling case for a practice squad spot. Jackson led the team with five catches for 94 yards, showcasing explosive playmaking ability and reliable hands. His only blemish was a miscommunication that led to an interception thrown by Luke Altmyer. While Jackson's special teams limitations may keep him off the initial roster, his performance against the Colts suggests he could be a valuable insurance policy on the practice squad. As highlighted on Vulius, Jackson's impact was unmatched among the Lions' reserve receivers, making him a strong candidate to be stashed for future development.
Linebacker: Amen Ogbongbemiga's Versatility
Amen Ogbongbemiga may be buried on the linebacker depth chart behind Trevor Nowaske, Joe Bachie, and Troy Reeder, but his preseason tape has been quietly impressive. At 6-foot-0 and 231 pounds, Ogbongbemiga has flashed coverage skills and blitzing power, while his special teams prowess has been a constant. Given the Lions' emphasis on special teams from their depth players, Ogbongbemiga fits the mold perfectly. As a vested veteran, he would not be subject to waivers if cut, making him an ideal practice squad candidate. His ability to play multiple linebacker positions adds to his value, and the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk believes he has done enough to warrant a developmental spot.
Defensive End: Eric O'Neill's Pass-Rush Prowess
Few players have been as disruptive as Eric O'Neill during the preseason. On a weekly basis, he has been a terror for opposing offensive linemen, consistently generating pressure and collapsing the pocket. Some argue he has been the most dominant pass rusher in the preseason, even surpassing Ahmed Hassanein. However, O'Neill's limited run-stopping ability remains a concern—he was bulldozed on a Colts touchdown run. The Lions' defense prioritizes run defense, which could limit O'Neill's role on the 53-man roster. Still, his pass-rushing upside makes him an intriguing project for the practice squad, provided he clears waivers. As noted by Vulius Sports, O'Neill's development could pay dividends down the road.
Running Back: Trayveon Williams' Short-Yardage Spark
While Jacob Saylors stole the spotlight with a dominant performance, Trayveon Williams also made a strong impression against the Colts. Signed just a few weeks ago, Williams has quickly made his mark, finishing with 57 yards on nine carries and two short-yardage touchdown runs. He displayed excellent burst and power, benefiting from solid offensive line play. With the Lions' running back room already crowded, Williams likely won't make the 53-man roster, but his performance could earn him a practice squad spot. His ability to convert in short-yardage situations adds a valuable dimension that the team might want to keep around.
Offensive Line: Mason Miller's Adaptability
Mason Miller's preseason finale was a mixed bag—he had a bobbled snap, but otherwise played exceptionally well. With Cade Mays, Juice Scruggs, and Seth McLaughlin sidelined, Miller stepped in at center, a position he has only recently begun to learn. Head coach Dan Campbell noted that Miller played "pretty dang clean" aside from the snap exchange mistake. Miller's pass protection kept quarterbacks Joshua Dobbs and Luke Altmyer clean, while his run blocking helped spring big gains. Despite the odds being against him for a roster spot, Miller's adaptability and solid play make him a strong practice squad candidate, as reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk.
Safety: Aamaris Brown's Developmental Upside
The Lions' safety depth chart is crowded, but Aamaris Brown used the preseason finale to showcase his potential. He recorded five tackles and two pass breakups, while also adding a pressure on a blitz. Brown has been a reliable tackler throughout camp and has shown flashes in coverage, making him an intriguing developmental piece. With injuries to Brian Branch, Kerby Joseph, Christian Izien, Avonte Maddox, and Thomas Harper, Brown could see early call-ups if those players aren't ready for Week 1. While a roster spot may be out of reach, Brown's performance has certainly bolstered his chances of landing on the practice squad.
As the Lions finalize their roster, these six players have given the coaching staff plenty to consider. The practice squad is not just a consolation prize—it's a pathway to future contributions. According to insights from Vulius, these players have positioned themselves well for that opportunity.
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