Lions: Preseason with New Challenges and QB2 in Key Duel

Detroit, MI – The Detroit Lions are preparing for a new season, leaving behind the elimination of the last postseason. Right tackle Penei Sewell has made it clear that the team is looking forward, focused on continuous improvement.

“Honestly, who cares what happened? We are moving forward, and every day we work towards greatness.”

Penei Sewell

With this mindset, the Lions begin their preseason, starting Thursday in Canton, Ohio, against the Los Angeles Chargers. This will be the Lions’ fourth appearance in the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game, and the first since 1991.

New Winds in the Team

The Lions organization presents several new features, including a renovated offensive line, the adaptation of new coordinators, the competition for the QB2 position, and the opportunity to see the rookies in action. Coach Dan Campbell will likely rest his starters during the preseason, but will seize the opportunity in Ohio to improve. The rest of the preseason schedule includes a trip to Atlanta, followed by home games against the Miami Dolphins and the Houston Texans.

Coordinators with New Strategies

Following the departures of defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn and offensive guru Ben Johnson, the Lions introduce their new coordinators. Kelvin Sheppard on defense and John Morton on offense, have been well-received at training camp and are looking to maintain the team’s production. Sheppard, who has been preparing for this role since 2021, has expressed his confidence and humility in the face of the challenge.

“I want to give credit to Dan Campbell and Aaron Glenn, because it’s exactly what I thought it would be. I say it humbly. I’m not overwhelmed”.

Kelvin Sheppard

Morton, who was already in Detroit as an offensive assistant in 2022, is implementing his own style, mixing what worked in the past with the team’s current strengths. Amon-Ra St. Brown, Lions wide receiver, has praised Morton, highlighting his ability to combine different offensive approaches. “He’s bringing a mix of the things he did in his coaching career that worked for him, things that have worked for us in the last two or three years on our offense. He’s mixing it all together and making his own offense.”

The Fight for the QB2 Position

Jared Goff, the starting quarterback, is coming off a standout season and has secured his position. However, the competition for the QB2 position is open between Kyle Allen and Hendon Hooker. Hooker, selected in the third round of the 2023 draft, has had an “average” start to camp, but is confident in securing the position. “I’m just going to control what I can control and play football. As long as I do my job, take care of the ball, and we win games, that’s all that matters.”

Image: Hendon Hooker (2) and Kyle Allen (background) compete for the backup position to Jared Goff.

The Rookies Seek Their Place

The Lions’ rookie class for 2025 isn’t as flashy as in previous years, but they are expected to have opportunities in the preseason. Coach Campbell has expressed his intention to give rookies playing time in the preseason games. Drafted players such as Tyleik Williams, Tate Ratledge, Miles Frazier, Ahmed Hassanein, Isaac TeSlaa, Dan Jackson, and Dominic Lovett will seek to prove their worth. Isaac TeSlaa, a Michigan native and Lions fan, hopes to make the most of the opportunities in the preseason.

“I assume that many of the rookies will have many opportunities [in the preseason]. So, for us, it’s our first action out there, playing against someone who isn’t our defense, so we’re really putting everything in place and making sure we have the playbook and team chemistry”.

Isaac TeSlaa

Renewed Offensive Line

The Lions’ offensive line has undergone significant changes, with the retirements of Frank Ragnow and the departure of Kevin Zeitler. The team has invested in Tate Ratledge, who is expected to have an immediate impact. Hank Fraley, run game coordinator and offensive line coach, has been working to maintain the group’s performance. Despite the changes, Sewell emphasizes the importance of maintaining the standard of excellence.

“The standard is the standard, regardless of who comes in. The standard never changes for anyone. You have to come knowing that you have to rise and execute that standard. It has been established by the guys who came before us, and it is our duty and our responsibility to maintain it.”

Penei Sewell