Lions' Post-Minicamp Studs and Duds

Taking stock of the Detroit Lions after mandatory minicamp.

With just one week of organized team activities remaining, the Detroit Lions are inching closer to training camp. 

Position battles are long from decided, but the workout sessions have given Dan Campbell and his coaching staff their first opportunity to evaluate the crop of talent his team has. 

Here is who stood out at minicamp and whose stock has dropped after the week of practice. 

Studs

LB Derrick Barnes

Entering a pivotal third season, Barnes has been solid throughout the early portion of team workouts. He's taking first-team reps throughout OTAs and minicamp. 

Campbell spoke strongly of him throughout the week, and Barnes appears confident within Aaron Glenn's scheme. 

S C.J. Gardner-Johnson

The presence of Gardner-Johnson elevates the rest of the defense. He's vocal and confident, which brings out both traits in his teammates. 

Being a proven talent on this otherwise young defense is paramount. He's not afraid to hold teammates accountable, and is the first to congratulate when a play is made. 

He's got the making of a true leader on the defense, and will be a difference-maker with his skill. So far, he's been among the best players on the team. 

QB Nate Sudfeld

With Hendon Hooker limited as he continues rehabbing a torn ACL, Sudfeld has the inside track to be Jared Goff's backup. 

He's looked good at points, showing chemistry with wideout Jameson Williams throughout the workouts. His experience and veteran savvy could come in handy, if he's called upon in a pinch. 

CB Starling Thomas V

Thomas was mentioned specifically by Campbell during his final press conference of minicamp. The praise doesn't come lightly, as he's had some success throughout. 

He struggled against Williams on Wednesday, but has held his own in most other situations. In a cornerback room that has competitive depth, he is working to put his name into consideration. 

S Kerby Joseph

Joseph seems to be a main benefactor of Gardner-Johnson's presence. He's appeared engaged and energetic during practices. 

There's a swagger that follows the second-year safety when he takes the field. He must continue to avoid freelancing defensively, but he's got a nose for the football and a knack for creating takeaways. 

RB Jermar Jefferson

Jefferson has caught the eye of the coaching staff with his performance this offseason. After spending all but one game last season on the practice squad, his performance reflects the sense of urgency he may be feeling. 

The battle for the third running back spot will be a tough one, but Jefferson has stood out during the early portion of team workouts. 

Duds

WR Jameson Williams

Williams had an up and down week at mandatory minicamp. Working with the second team Wednesday, he had plenty of success. 

However, he remains inconsistent working with Jared Goff and the first-team offense. His talent is undeniable, as his ability to make a massive impact on the offense. 

Yet, it's clear the second-year wideout still has room to grow. 

LB Malcolm Rodriguez

Rodriguez hasn't participated since the first week of OTAs, so he's missed out on valuable reps. 

He's not going to fall out of the linebacker rotation due to injury by any means, but not being active has paved the way for players like Derrick Barnes and Jalen Reeves-Maybin to get quality reps. 

There's also rookie linebacker Jack Campbell competing for the starting job. Rodriguez needs a strong bounce back in training camp. 

RB Craig Reynolds

With the emergence of Jefferson and Mohamed Ibrahim, Reynolds seems to be back on the roster bubble. 

When given extended run in 2021, he proved to be productive. Injuries sidelined him plenty last season, though, and he faces stiff competition to get back to that previous role.

CB Will Harris

Harris is in a battle to stay in the rotation with the Lions' revamped secondary. With Cam Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley set to lead the unit, he'll have to compete. 

The nickel role, one that Harris has played in the past, is also covered by a newcomer. The veteran struggled during minicamp and needs to rebound heading into training camp. 

K Riley Patterson

The Lions are in a unique spot heading into training camp with three kickers. Michael Badgley, Parker Romo and Patterson are all competing for one spot. 

So far, Romo has gotten the best of Patterson in multiple kicking competitions. With Badgley as the incumbent, these duels may be to settle who will challenge him for the role later in the offseason. 

TE James Mitchell

Much like Rodriguez, Mitchell is a victim of circumstance. 

He was not an active participant at minicamp, but Sam LaPorta continues to emerge as a top pass-catcher within the room. 

With the rookie's solid play and a limited amount of spots at the position on the final roster, the second-year target must continue proving his skill when healthy throughout the rest of the offseason.