Detroit Lions roster rankings: 29-20

Detroit Lions roster rankings: 29-20

The Detroit Lions have a lot of talent on the fringes of the roster.

While only 11 players can be on the field at a time, players who contribute on a rotational basis have often made a big impact for the Lions during the Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes era. This has to do with players embracing and embracing their roles, which is a key component of the Campbell and Holmes culture.

Here is the third in a series evaluating the Lions roster, ranking players based on potential impact. Following are players 29-20.

Lions squad ranking: 52-40
Lions squad ranking: 39-30

29.) LB Jalen Reeves-Maybin

Reeves-Maybin has become an anchor on special teams and has immense value because of it. He has become a captain and has performed at a Pro Bowl level in that area of ​​the game. Given how much the Lions value special teams, he has played a huge role in their success.

That doesn’t mean he doesn’t underestimate his defensive abilities, though. Reeves-Maybin showed he was capable of contributing at points last year, even recording his first career sack last season.

28.) DT Levi Onwuzurike

Onwuzurike is ready to break through in 2024. He has fully recovered from a long-term back injury and has emerged as a standout player during training camp.

The Washington product should see plenty of snaps along the defensive line and could be one of the beneficiaries of the partnership with new nose tackle DJ Reader. He, Reader and Alim McNeill give the Lions a stable trio of defensive tackles.

27.) THE Josh Paschal

Paschal enters a crucial third year with the Lions, having been injured at points in his first two years. He has made strides in defending the run, but he has yet to show a dynamic ability to rush the passer.

With the Lions lacking in proven production in that area, the Kentucky product has a chance to step up and be a big contributor, but staying healthy will be key in his third season.

26.) TE Brock Wright

The Lions nearly lost Wright last season when the 49ers gave him a three-year, $12 million offer, but they ultimately opted to match the offer and keep the valuable reserve tight end.

While Wright hasn’t had eye-popping production from a receiving perspective, he has been a key part of the passing game during his time with the organization. He should be able to play heavily in Detroit’s two-tight end personnel sets and will see an increase in usage.

25.) S Ifeatu Melifonwu

Can Melifonwu Stay Healthy? The Syracuse product struggled with injuries for most of his first three seasons, but he made the most of his opportunities in the final stretch of last season.

Heading into Week 1, he’s dealing with another lingering issue. If healthy, he offers the Lions defense an uncanny ability to blitz and chase the quarterback from the safety position, as well as some production in pass coverage.

24.) CB Amik Robertson

Robertson plays with a sharpness that fits very well with what the Lions want to do defensively. Although he is undersized, he is strong and physical and not afraid of whoever he is in front of.

With Melifonwu injured and Emmanuel Moseley out for the foreseeable future, Robertson appears to be the leading candidate to start at nickel in certain packages for Detroit. He fits Aaron Glenn’s style and should be a strong addition.

23.) WR Kalif Raymond

Raymond has the potential to be a big part of the offense, but the Lions may not want to take away special teams work from him. He has collected at least 35 receptions in each of his first three years with the Lions, but there is a chance to get even more.

The former professional has found a home in Detroit. He will likely handle punt returns, with the ability to handle kicks if needed. On offense, he can play both slot and outside and can get to the top of defenses.

22.) THE Marcus Davenport

Health is key for Davenport. The veteran has yet to play a full NFL season and was limited to just four games last season with the Minnesota Vikings due to an ankle injury. Still, Davenport could be a big contributor to a pass rush that lacked strength last season.

If Davenport can stay on the court, he will have the ability to rush the passer, something that was in high demand last year. Aidan Hutchinson was the only player to have more than 10 sacks. Only one other player had five or more.

21.) LB Derrick Barnes

Barnes had a breakout season last year when he won the starting position over 2023 first-round pick Jack Campbell. He also appears to have won the SAM linebacker position this season, meaning he will wear multiple hats within the Lions’ defense.

The Purdue product was more focused on the passer during his college years, so the versatility required of him won’t be a problem.

20.) WR Jameson Williams

Williams may have the most boom or bust potential of any player on the Lions roster. With his speed, there’s potential for him to put up video game-level numbers in terms of receiving yards. However, he could also struggle to find his stride if old bad techniques and habits resurface.

Given his performance during training camp, there is no reason not to be optimistic about what Williams has to offer.