The Detroit Lions opened their 2026 training camp in Allen Park on July 29 with an 90-minute practice featuring high-profile absences, new player roles, and standout performances across the roster.
Jahmyr Gibbs Absence and Contract Situation
The most notable absence from the opening practice at Allen Park was running back Jahmyr Gibbs. While the team did not list him with an injury, his absence is widely tied to his eligibility for a contract extension. Head coach Dan Campbell addressed the situation after the session, noting that the organization plans to take things as they come
as both sides work through the process.
“You guys know how we feel about Gibbs and all of our guys … so we’ll take this as it comes. This will kind of continue. It’ll come as it comes, I think that’s the best way to say it. And so, this is both sides working through something and we’ll take it as it comes, but that’s where it is.”
Dan Campbell, Head Coach, Detroit Lions
Gibbs’ absence drew external reaction as well, with former teammate David Montgomery posting on social media in support of the running back’s pursuit of a new deal. In Gibbs’ absence, the Lions split early reps between Isiah Pacheco and Sione Vaki, with Vaki earning first-team reps during 11-on-11 drills due to strong pass blocking.
Jameson Williams Headlines Practice With Contested Catches
Wide receiver Jameson Williams put on a show during the opening session, hauling in multiple difficult passes against tight coverage. Known primarily for his deep speed, Williams demonstrated improved contested-catch ability by fighting off defensive backs throughout 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills.
His performance included a sideline grab with cornerback D.J. Reed in tight coverage and a deep post hauled in against double coverage from Ennis Rakestraw Jr. and Chuck Clark. Team observers noted that if Williams continues to develop his ability to win in traffic, it could help him build upon his 1,117-yard campaign from the previous year and secure a consistent role in the Detroit offense.
Secondary Shake-Up and Cornerback Battles
With safeties Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch, and Christien Izien sidelined on the Physically Unable to Perform list or dealing with minor issues, the Lions turned to veterans Chuck Clark and Avonte Maddox to anchor the first-team secondary. Meanwhile, Joseph was spotted running on the side conditioning hill.
Following the departure of former cornerback Terrion Arnold, the competition for the starting job opposite D.J. Reed featured a rotation between Rock Ya-Sin and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. However, bubble player Nick Whiteside generated considerable buzz by recording multiple pass breakups during the shortened practice session.
Jackson Meeks Completes Tight End Transition
The first day of camp also brought clarity to roster depth and position changes, most notably with Jackson Meeks officially completing his transition from wide receiver to tight end. Meeks, who joined the team last year as an undrafted free agent, spent the latter half of last season moving toward a Move-TE role.
“Blocking is 90% mindset and 10% technique. And honestly, if I can go in (the trenches) and fight my butt off for three seconds, that’s all I need with Jahmyr Gibbs back there.”
Jackson Meeks, Tight End, Detroit Lions
Meeks is working behind starter Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright alongside fellow tight end Miles Kitselman. In the trenches, rookie first-round draft pick Blake Miller opened camp handling all first-team reps at right tackle, while Larry Borom rotated across multiple positions and served as an extra blocker.
Punt Return Competition and Preseason Outlook
Special teams coordinator Dave Fipp will evaluate several options for the punt returner vacancy left by Kalif Raymond’s departure to Chicago in free agency. During Wednesday’s workout, the team tested multiple returners, including Amon-Ra St. Brown, Greg Dortch, Dominic Lovett, Tom Kennedy, Lawrence Keys, and Isiah Pacheco, as the franchise looks to improve upon its 23rd-ranked 8.3-yard punt return average from last season.
As camp progresses, Dan Campbell indicated that the team’s approach to playing starters in upcoming preseason games will depend on practice intensity and overall development as the pads come on in the coming days.
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