Observations: Jared Goff Sits, Lions Preparing for Steelers

Here are observations from Day 20 of Detroit Lions training camp.

The Detroit Lions' training camp practice on Thursday was lighter, in terms of competitive drills between the starters and reserves. 

There were seven-on-seven periods and a heavy emphasis on special teams throughout the two-hour practice. 

Lions head coach Dan Campbell informed reporters prior to the practice, the team was now in full preparation mode for the preseason finale against the Pittsburgh Steelers. 

"Everything today is about Pittsburgh," Campbell expressed. "So, started our walk-through yesterday, and then today is more about getting ready for those guys."

Campbell continued, "Yesterday was a little bit of a hybrid day, and then today was more true to what an in-season preparation for an opponent would be." 

The coaching staff will now be tasked with taking a young roster and transitioning it from training camp mode into a regular season mindset. 

"I think it's a chance for some of the new coaches or new ways we do things," said Campbell. "For example, the offense, Ben (Johnson). And, then some of the new defensive coaches and certainly the young guys who haven't been through it. You kind of shift from camp mode now to in season. So, for them, what does it look like? For example, lifting is now -- you got to do it before practice or you do it after practice or before meetings. And then, just the scouting of the opponent, talking about its personnel and the scheme, as it relates to who we're getting ready to play. It's just more in depth." 

Attendance

Those not seen participating at practice include: 

• QB Jared Goff
• CB Cedric Boswell
• DL Levi Onwuzurike
• DL Eric Banks 
• OL Tommy Kraemer
• OL Matt Nelson 

© Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK

Cornerback Jerry Jacobs could still be placed on the PUP list, but the team still believes there is an opportunity for the talented cornerback to return in the first quarter of the season.  

"It’s more, can we begin to get him some practice reps and just slowly implement him in what we’re doing in practice," Campbell explained to reporters. "Whether it’s scout team, or running our defense, just a couple of plays, then he’s off to the side, continue his rehab, strengthening. And, then maybe the next day, he’s able to get a little bit more.

"Then, hypothetically -- he’s ready Week 5, let’s say shoot, he’s gotten practice for four weeks and he’s ready. Whereas, if you just did PUP, he’s (gone) for four weeks, and then first thing you do, you pull him off. He’s not going to be ready to play, since he hadn’t gotten any practice reps."

Observations

1.) Former Lions offensive lineman and current radio analyst T.J. Lang was present at practice. He was interviewed remotely for an appearance on Thursday's edition of "The Pat McAfee Show". 

2.) Working off of cue cards, the Lions' offense and defense were getting prepared for their matchup Sunday against the Steelers, with various looks at what Mike Tomlin might run. Tim Boyle struggled at times to hit wide open receivers during his work with the first-team offense. He had Kalif Raymond streaking towards the end zone, and significantly overthrew the speedy wideout. Boyle took a deep shot, and targeted D'Andre Swift, but could not connect with Will Harris in coverage. 

3.) Jeff Okudah's compete level remains quite high. He was able to thwart a Boyle over-the-middle toss to Hockenson, who bobbled the ball. The third-year defensive back still swatted the football away. 

4.) Safety Kerby Joseph anticipated well, and was able to intercept David Blough. 

5.) Linebacker Alex Anzalone started his day with solid coverage on Swift, swatting away the football tossed by Boyle. The defensive backs and linebackers competed strong all afternoon, and found any avenue they could to swat footballs away and prevent completions. 

6.) Safety Tracy Walker almost needed to hurdle a cameraman when he found his way running full speed toward the sideline in coverage. Momentum carried the talented safety out of bounds, and he adjusted quickly to avoid taking out other photographers.

7.) After being on the receiving end of a Boyle touchdown toss, tight end Devin Funchess dropped an easy should've-been touchdown tossed by Blough. 

8.) Safety Bobby Price appeared to be near the football in several team periods. He recorded a couple of pass break-ups, and competed strong against Detroit's top receivers.