Detroit Lions 2024 Training Camp Preview

Detroit Lions 2024 Training Camp Preview

Last year, the Detroit Lions came one-half of football away from their first Super Bowl berth in franchise history. However, Dan Campbell did Dan Campbell things, among other factors, leading to them losing a lead on the road in San Francisco. This fanbase is clamoring for this team to take the next step in 2024. Despite what Trey says, I believe they had a pretty solid draft class, leaning heavily on the defense which was needed (the trade-ups aren’t ideal, I’ll give him that). Will this team put it all together this season and make their first Super Bowl? We try to answer that here in the Lions 2024 training camp preview!

Three Position Battles To Watch:

Cornerback: Carlton Davis, Terrion Arnold, Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Kindle Vildor, Emmanuel Mosley

This is really who is going to play opposite Carlton Davis, who was acquired via trade back in March. The Lions enter training camp with a revamped Cornerback unit, as the unit in 2023 gave up the fourth-most passing yards, second-most yards per attempt and the sixth-most touchdowns through the air.

I know the team re-signed Kindle Vildor this off-season, but he’s out of the equation for me. He simply isn’t very good. Emmanuel Mosley is *fine* but not a real game-changer. This really falls on the rookies Terrion Arnold, draft profile here, and Ennis Rakestraw Jr., draft profile here. Both have unique qualities that could elevate them above the other, but the lead had to go to Arnold as he was the higher-drafted player.

Safety: Ifeatu Melifonwu, Kerby Joseph, Brandon Joseph, C.J. Moore, Brian Branch

With C.J. Gardner-Johnson gone, there is now a huge opening in the Safety position. For me, the clear leaders in the clubhouse are Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch. Yes, I know that Branch transitioned to Corner last season, but I think his real home is back at Safety. Joseph and Branch would make a stellar pair of Safeties to cover the back end. IM is an intriguing player, someone who could steal some snaps during Lions training camp, but I would move Branch to the back end and pair him with Joseph.

Kicker: Michael Badgley, Jake Bates

Outside of Jared Goff, there might not be a player who has garnered more of a rapid following on this team than Jake Bates. Bates quickly became a fan favorite last season for his ability to hit bombs off his foot. Michael Badgley did not miss a single kick last season, so it would be hard to argue moving him down the depth chart, but Bates’ ability to nail kicks from beyond 60 yards has to be considered.

Fantasy Sleeper/Ready To Breakout: Jameson Williams

Jameson Williams earns both my fantasy sleeper and ready-to-breakout nod for the Lions as they enter training camp in 2024. Not only does he have CALVIN JOHNSON to teach him, but Dan Campbell has gone on record saying he’s the most improved player during OTAs. His game-breaking speed makes him an immediate threat as soon as he steps onto the field. He should be going to training camp 100% healthy and ready to go, which will be a welcomed sign for this offense. He’s the clear WR2 in this offense and should see a significant uptick in touches this season.

Rookie To Watch: Mekhi Wingo

Mekhi Wingo, the sixth-round pick out of LSU, brings an interesting dynamic to this defensive line group. He was a captain while at LSU, totaling 99 tackles, 13 for loss, and a very solid 8.5 sacks over two seasons with the school. He’s no slouch in his own right, and could very easily push both DJ Reader and Alim McNeil for some snaps during the season.

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