Lions set to test depth in preseason clash with Falcons

A focused look at the first half of the Lions versus Falcons preseason game and the key developments to watch.

Lions set to test depth in preseason clash with Falcons

The Lions travel to Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the final road preseason game against the Falcons. Detroit aims to rebound from five turnovers last week in the loss to the Chargers and to tighten play before home joint practices with the Dolphins and Texans next week. Hendon Hooker will start at quarterback after backing up Kyle Allen in the Hall of Fame Game, with his role shifting from third string to a chance to lead the second unit. Isaac TeSlaa is expected to see significant work after a promising debut, and various positional battles in the lineup remain open as coaches evaluate depth for roster cuts.

Preseason football is a laboratory where each snap weighs more for roster decisions than for headlines. Detroit’s emphasis on ball security is a clear signal that coaches will favor cleaner games over flashy numbers. Hooker’s performance with the second unit will shape how quickly the team trusts its depth behind the starter, while TeSlaa and other rookies have a real chance to prove they belong. If the Lions show progress on both lines and in the backfield, it could steer the season narrative toward a deeper, more versatile bench.

Highlights

The next preseason games will reveal how quickly the Lions translate practice tempo to real game situations.