What We Learned About Detroit Lions After Preseason Loss

Read more on lessons learned about the Lions in a 25-7 loss to Jacksonville.

The preseason doesn't hold much weight for the Detroit Lions, but there has been plenty to learn about what's to come in 2023. 

Through two games, the Lions have posted a win and a loss. Their depth on defense shined in the first game, while a lack thereof on offense hindered their chances in Saturday's tilt against Jacksonville. 

Training camp is winding down, and the final roster spots are being sorted out. With just a week remaining until cut day, here are three lessons learned about the Lions in their most recent preseason contest. 

Offensive line depth in question

The Lions' offensive line has struggled with injuries plenty in recent years. So much so, that the team has yet to play as much as a single snap with its penciled-in starting five in the past two campaigns. 

As a result, depth is pivotal. Through two preseason games, there have been plenty of concerns as a result. Outside of the Lions' top six linemen, little is set in stone. 

At least three roster spots could be up for grabs throughout the final week of training camp. Detroit needs to identify the best options, with the mindset that its backups may be called upon in big moments this season. 

With this in mind, look for the likes of Matt Nelson, Germain Ifedi, Kayode Awosika and others to get plenty of reps Friday against Carolina, in an effort to iron out the details of the competition. 

Houston takes big step

James Houston's training camp trajectory has been unique. Penciled in as a piece of the future after a strong rookie campaign, he has taken lumps while learning to play a new position.

Though he proved to be a strong edge rusher, there's concerns about his ability to cover and contribute against the run in his linebacker role.  

Yet, his performance on Saturday was more than encouraging. With a sack and four tackles for loss, he demonstrated that he is capable of becoming a key piece of the Lions' defense in his new role. 

Houston's production only deepens the Lions' core of edge rushers. With veterans Romeo Okwara and Charles Harris back in the fold, Detroit is deeper on the defensive line than it was a year ago. 

This prompted the switch for Houston, which he has willingly accepted. He passed another challenge Saturday in his extended action. 

If he can continue to grow in his new role, the Lions will be able to maximize the skills he already has as a rusher. 

UDFAs take center stage

The Lions have put their undrafted free-agent class on full display throughout their first two preseason games. With many starters sitting out, the UDFA crop has seen plenty of action. 

Most notably, players at the skill positions on both sides of the ball have shined. Wide receivers Chase Cota and Dylan Drummond have had strong camp performances, while cornerbacks Starling Thomas and Steven Gilmore each have popped at times, as well. 

The Lions have kept at least one UDFA in each of Dan Campbell's first two seasons as head coach. This means it's likely at least one from the crop will crack Detroit's final 53-man squad. 

Who makes the final cut remains to be seen, but many players have made strong cases. These players, should they not make the Lions' final cuts, will likely still find homes elsewhere throughout the league.