Early Lions Training Camp Risers

Here are five players to watch at Detroit Lions training camp.

Here are five Detroit Lions players that grabbed a significant amount of attention on Day 1 of training camp.

Brian Branch

The young defensive back stood out more than any one player on Day 1 of training camp. 

With his ability to read and recognize what is happening in front of him, it is clear the former Crimson Tide defensive back has been studying his notes from the spring. 

Branch, along with rookies Sam LaPorta and Jahmyr Gibbs, caught the attention of veteran quarterback Jared Goff. 

“Yeah, I mean those three guys right there that you said, Gibbs, LaPorta and Branch, I know there’s aplenty more, but yeah, they’re just pros and they’ve showed up and just gone to work and put their head down and do the right thing," said Goff. "Similar to, I think of Aidan (Hutchinson) last year. Just kind of don’t say a word, just do the right thing every time and be the best player you can be, and they’ll have their impact in some way or another. But it’s been fun to see those guys grow into a role of their own, and they’ll continue to grow.”

Charles Harris

Harris could be seeing a little more playing time at the SAM linebacker position this season. 

In 2021, Harris had a breakout campaign in Detroit and is known for his success playing on the edge as a pass-rusher.

If Harris can add additional responsibilities to his game and thrive, Aaron Glenn's defense has the chance to take advantage of five-man looks. 

Being able to quickly read pass plays and intermediate looks will give Detroit's defense more options from different looks. 

Jahymr Gibbs

No question, Gibbs is going to be utilized heavily in Detroit's offense. Splitting time with David Montgomery, the speedy wideout is going to be utilized out of the backfield a significant amount. 

Gibbs saw a fair share of reps with the first-team offense on Day 1, signaling the coaching staff's early confidence in the 2023 first-round pick. 

Starling Thomas V

The undrafted free agent is making a case to become the unheralded player who makes Detroit's 53-man roster coming out of camp. 

Thomas looked quite comfortable playing opposite of Will Harris on Detroit's second-team defense. 

Oftentimes, players take what they have learned from the spring and can gain confidence when training camp begins. 

Thomas appears to be ready to compete for a role in Glenn's defense, as he looked in position and aware of his responsibilities on Day 1. 

Riley Patterson

Releasing Michael Badgley likely indicted the team was comfortable moving forward with Patterson, who had a previous stint in Detroit. 

"It was hard to let Badgley go," Dan Campbell said. "It was tough. I've got a lot of respect for him. We wanted to get another look at (Riley) Patterson. We feel like they are very similar type players -- Badgley and Patterson. We like (Parker) Romo. He's kind of the wild card with the big leg. Between those two guys let's get a look at it and let them compete against each other."