Predicting Key Lions Training Camp Battles

Read more on important position battles ahead of training camp.

Training camp will bring out the best in each member of the Detroit Lions' roster. 

Through the late-July and August heat, players will be battling to make impressions for Detroit's coaching staff. Whether it be for a roster spot or a starting position, everyone has something to prove.  

Beginning July 23, players will have just over a month to audition for their roles heading into a highly anticipated 2023 campaign. 

Here are five position battles worth monitoring at training camp: 

Linebacker

Detroit's linebacker position will be anchored by Alex Anzalone. However, the recently re-signed veteran's running mate is to be determined. 

In what should be an exciting battle, linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard will have to sort through a trio of talented, young players to determine the best fit. 

Rookie Jack Campbell is viewed as a favorite given his first round status. During OTAs, coach Dan Campbell said the rookie was still adjusting to the speed of the NFL. 

If the first-rounder doesn't get up to speed, he won't be rushed. Malcolm Rodriguez started 15 games last year as a sixth-round pick and remains a viable option. 

There's also Derrick Barnes, who's entering his third campaign. He's yet to break through despite showing flashes, including a 12-tackle performance against Green Bay last season. 

The Purdue product took first team reps in OTAs and is viewed as a dark horse candidate to win the job out of camp. Should he do so, it would be an encouraging sign for his development. 

Campbell is still viewed as a future mainstay within the defense. However, the Lions won't rush him into the starting spot immediately if he's not ready. 

Predicted winner: Barnes

Tight end

The trio of Brock Wright, James Mitchell and Shane Zylstra provided adequate production after T.J. Hockenson was traded last season. While none posted exuberant statistics, they were reliable. 

Each returns, and the Lions drafted Iowa's Sam LaPorta in the second round. Early in the offseason, the rookie has stood out amongst his peers. 

With his receiving ability, he will have an impact on the offense. However, Detroit's value on the run game means his workload will be determined by his ability to block. 

Wright is the best blocker of the bunch and should be utilized as essentially an extra lineman in run-blocking situations. 

Mitchell adds an extra element of intrigue. He missed out on much of the offseason last year while rehabbing an ACL, so a full offseason and training camp should do wonders for his progression.

Expect a healthy dose of Wright and LaPorta, but the Virginia Tech product will factor into the offensive equation often as well. 

Predicted winner: Wright

Running back

This battle won't be for the starter or backup role. In David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, the Lions have their top two options. 

Yet, every team needs a third. 

Scottie Montgomery's room has plenty of options. Craig Reynolds is the incumbent but missed significant time last season due to injuries. 

Jermar Jefferson's presence is worth monitoring. The third back in 2021, he suffered a season-ending injury after playing in seven games. 

He spent all but one game on the practice squad last season. There's belief that he may have the highest ceiling of the competitors for the RB3 role, but he will need a strong camp to prove it. 

Mohamed Ibrahim is one of the best of the team's undrafted free agent crop and has legitimate talent. Greg Bell went down with an injury that ended his 2022 season early in camp.

Predicted winner: Jefferson

Cornerback

Detroit overhauled its secondary this offseason. In Cam Sutton, the team has a legitimate top cornerback after struggles in years past. 

While the former Steeler will claim one spot, who starts opposite him remains a mystery. Emmanuel Moseley is a leading candidate but is recovering from an ACL injury suffered in Week 5 of the 2022 campaign. 

Jerry Jacobs won't go quietly, either. The former undrafted free agent is one of GM Brad Holmes' best finds and has started 17 games over the last two years. 

Rookie Brian Branch was one of the best tacklers at the collegiate level last year. He can play either corner or safety, so camp should create some conclusions about where he'll line up in the regular season.

If Moseley reports to camp healthy, his best is better than Jacobs'. However, the undrafted rookie and Branch will light a competitive spark that will create an intense battle for the spot. 

Predicted winner: Moseley

Offensive guard

Two veterans will square off for the only open spot on Detroit's offensive line. Halapoulivaati Vaitai is returning from a back injury that cost him the whole 2022 campaign, while Graham Glasgow is looking to rebound after struggling with the Denver Broncos. 

Both are solid performers who should shine in the run game. The edge is with Vaitai given his familiarity with the Lions' scheme, but Glasgow will push hard to crack the lineup. 

Whoever falls to the second unit will have the versatility to play either guard spot. It will give the team solid depth. 

Predicted winner: Vaitai