James Mitchell, Frank Ragnow Miss Friday Practice

Lions tight end misses practice Friday.

The Detroit Lions returned to the practice field on final time before they face the Carolina Panthers at Ford Field. 

Those not spotted at the portion of practice open to the media included tight end James Mitchell and Frank Ragnow. Amon-Ra St. Brown also missed the open portion as expected.

The second-year tight end has had a slow start to the season, as rookie Sam LaPorta has been the primary offensive weapon. 

Mitchell has seen his snap counts steadily declining and a potential injury could pave the way for Darrell Daniels to see more playing time. 

Ragnow has been working his maintenance routine and is expected to play Sunday. 

Of note, head coach Dan Campbell opened the door for a potential return of veteran right guard Halapoulivaati Vaitai. 

Campbell Doesn't Feel Good About Branch Playing against Panthers

Hutchinson thriving with heavy workload 

Early in the 2023 season, many have observed the heavily workload the talented defensive lineman has been given. 

Despite playing over 90 percent of defensive snaps, Hutchinson has seen his productivity increase and has become a force along the defensive front. 

“I pride myself on how I work in the offseason and how I really take care of my body all throughout the year,” Hutchinson said. “That kinda sets me up to stay away from those injuries that keep you out week to week, and really have me in there and feeling fresh for a lot of those plays. I take a lot of pride in it. I’m happy to be out there all the time.

The second-year lineman has been satisfied with his start to the season, including pressuring the quarterback more from the inside.