Here is an updated prediction of which Detroit Lions players should make the 53-man roster in 2026, following a 17-13 victory against the Washington Commanders at Ford Field. Quarterback (2)In: Jared Goff, Josh DobbsOut: Luke AltmyerThe veteran quarterback made a rookie mistake, tossing an early interception, but his mobility and poise following a bad decision should not go unnoticed. Dan Campbell indicated he would like Altmyer, the first-year quarterback to work towards playing faster. Another week of practice should see the undrafted free agent play better against the Colts next weekend. Running back (3)In: Jahmyr Gibbs, Isiah Pacheco, Jacob SaylorsOut: Trayveon Williams, Jabari Small, Raheem Blackshear, Sione VakiSione Vaki, while being a top special teams player, cannot only hang his hat on impressing Dave Fipp. He is often injured and not a player the team can rely upon, especially given how well Jacob Saylors has performed throughout the preseason. Wide receiver (5)In: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Isaac TeSlaa, Greg Dortch, Tay MartinOut: Dominic Lovett, Cedrick Wilson Jr., Malik Cunningham, Tom Kennedy, Lucky Jackson, Tarik BlackInjured: Kendrick Law (IR)Cedrick Wilson Jr. may have the decision for the coaching staff quite challenging. Unfortunately, he suffered a worrisome injury against the Commanders, which may signal a spot on an injury list. Tight end (4)In: Sam LaPorta, Brock Wright, Tyler Conklin, Jackson MeeksOut: Thomas Gordon, Zach HortonJackson Meeks continues to improve all throughout camp. While he may have been kept off our previous 53-man projections, it is hard to ignore Meeks' potential, after a solid week of training camp and a standout performance at Ford Field. Offensive line (9)In: Penei Sewell, Christian Mahogany, Tate Ratledge, Blake Miller, Larry Borom, Juice Scruggs, Miles Frazier, Melvin Priestly, Seth McLaughlinOut: Devin Cochran, Michael Niese, Ben Bartch, Colby Sorsdal, Mason MillerInjured: Giovanni Manu (NFI), Cade MaysIt appears Ben Bartch will not have enough reps to actually compete for a starting role. Given how much time the veteran lineman has missed, it is difficult to find a role for him at this time. Defensive line (5)In: Alim McNeill, Tyleik Williams, Tyler Lacy, Levi Onwuzurike, Skyler Gill-HowardOut: Tyre West, Mekhi Wingo, Myles Adams, Chris SmithSkyler Gill-Howard continues to shine and quickly became the Lions 2026 training camp darling. EDGE (5)In: Aidan Hutchinson, D.J. Wonnum, Derrick Moore, Ahmed Hassanein, Eric O'NeillOut: Payton Turner, Anthony Lucas, Ben StilleAfter a solid week of training camp, Eric O'Neill is making a solid push to cement a spot on the Detroit Lions roster in 2026. The game against the Colts next week can solidify his position even more. Linebacker (6)In: Jack Campbell, Derrick Barnes, Devin White, Malcolm Rodriguez, Trevor Nowaske, Erick HunterOut: Troy Reeder, Joe Bachie, Amen Ogbongbemiga, Damone ClarkInjured: Jimmy RolderGiven the Detroit Lions schematic changes on defense, the team may elect to carry an extra linebacker. Cornerback (7)In: D.J. Reed, Rock Ya-Sin, Ennis Rakestraw, Nick Whiteside, Keith Abney, Khalil Dorsey, Christian IzienOut: Aamaris Brown, Roger McCreary, Ryan Cooper Jr., Ekow Boye-DowKeith Abney continues to earn opportunities to compete on the outside and at nickel cornerback. His competitiveness and ability to bounce back quickly will serve him well his rookie season. He did give up an explosive play against the Commanders, but teammates rallied around him and provided him coaching tips on the sidelines. Safety (4)In: Chuck Clark, Avonte Maddox, Dan Jackson, Thomas HarperInjured: Kerby Joseph (PUP), Brian Branch (PUP)The toughest decision the coaching staff may face this summer is whether Dan Jackson should make the 53-man roster. The safety room has plenty of depth, but Jackson needs to make sure to has his best week of training camp and a solid performance in the preseason finale. Specialist (3)In: Jake Bates (K), Jack Fox (P), Hogan Hatten (LS)For more comprehensive Detroit Lions coverage and NFL insider analysis, follow us on X, @detroitpodcast, head on over to our Facebook page and give it a like, follow us on TikTok, subscribe to the Detroit Lions On SI Lone Wolves YouTube Channel for daily videos, news, member-exclusive content. Add us as a preferred source on GoogleFollow
Updated Detroit Lions 53-Man Roster Prediction After Commanders Win
Examining which Detroit Lions improved their chances of making the 53-man roster.









