Lions depth chart updated ahead of Falcons game

A look at Detroit’s depth chart as they prepare for Friday’s preseason matchup with Atlanta, showing how youth and backups could shape the week.

Lions reveal updated depth chart ahead of preseason game against Falcons

The Detroit Lions released an updated depth chart ahead of Friday’s preseason game with the Atlanta Falcons. The team plans to rest most starters again after resting 28 players in the previous game against the Chargers. Rookie defensive tackle Tyliek Williams and right guard Tate Ratledge are candidates to play, as coach Dan Campbell weighs giving them experience in Atlanta. Campbell said Hooker will start, with Kyle Allen getting the ball in the second half, as the team continues to evaluate backup options.

The chart outlines a mix of veterans and contenders for reserve roles, underscoring how Detroit intends to balance development with health. At running back, Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery are the top backs, with Craig Reynolds, Sione Vaki, Jabari Small and Jacob Saylors also listed. Vaki has been dealing with a hamstring issue but has returned to practice, though he was a late absence at the last practice. If Vaki is available, expect more carries for him early, otherwise Reynolds could shoulder a larger load.

Wide receivers feature a mix of established players and youngsters. Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams are the clear starters, with Tim Patrick nursing an injury and several depth options still vying for roles. TeSlaa and Kennedy are likely to see extended play, while Lovett and Meeks are sidelined by injuries, opening the door for UDFA Meeks to earn reps. The tight end group remains anchored by Sam LaPorta, with Brock Wright and Shane Zylstra also in the mix as the competition for TE3 tightens.

On the line, the Lions face decisions about Ratledge’s availability. If Ratledge plays, Awosika could shift inside and Muti would move to second group, potentially pushing Sorsdal to tackle. The defense sees Hutchinson and Davenport anchoring the edge, with Williams, Lopez and Martin pushing for snaps. The health status of several players will influence how Detroit structures its offensive and defensive packages this week.

Detroit uses the preseason as a testbed for depth and health, and Friday’s game will reveal how far the organization will lean into youth. Resting most starters reduces immediate risk but creates a live environment for players on the edge to claim a role. The absence of Lovett and Meeks, plus the uncertain status of Ratledge, places extra pressure on a handful of second-stringers to prove they belong in the rotation.

This game also signals how the Lions view the calendar beyond September. By exposing rookies to meaningful reps while protecting key veterans, Detroit signals a plan to build competition at every position. If Williams and Ratledge show well, the team could accelerate development at critical spots on the line and front seven. The balance between health and opportunity will shape roster decisions as cuts loom and the opener approaches.

Highlights

The depth chart is a living document in August, not a final verdict for the fall.