Lions use Week 2 preseason to test depth

An editorial look at how Detroit used snap counts and field order in Week 2 of the preseason against the Dolphins to gauge depth and quarterback competition.

Lions test Hooker in backup role as snap counts reveal depth chart

In Week 2 of the preseason, the Detroit Lions lost to the Miami Dolphins 24-17, but the game served mainly to test players and rotations. The Lions split quarterback reps with Kyle Allen starting for 35 snaps (51%) and Hendon Hooker close behind at 34 (49%), while Jared Goff did not play. Coach Dan Campbell signaled that Hooker could get more looks next week as Detroit continues to evaluate both quarterbacks.

On offense, receiver reps were spread between Meeks, TeSlaa, Kennedy, Bell, Keeney-James, Lovett, and others, with Meeks playing the full first half and Lovett being eased back from injury. Horton logged most of the tight end snaps, a sign the team wants to evaluate him at TE3 against Zylstra and other options. The Lions shuffled the line, with Skipper at right tackle and Jones at left tackle, while Gunner Britton stepped in after an injury to Justin Herron. Defensive depth was tested as Hassanein left early with an injury, opening more opportunities for Lynn, Ukwu, and Agude. Kennelly remained a focal point in the secondary, showing versatility across multiple roles.

The snap data points to a depth-first approach rather than a simple win pursuit. Allen’s lead in quarterback snaps suggests he remains the front-runner to start the season as the backup, but Campbell’s comments show Hooker is not merely along for the ride. The near-equal share keeps both quarterbacks in the competition, with next week’s game likely to tilt the balance. Detroit’s strategy also centers on versatility. Horton’s heavy involvement at multiple tight end alignments signals a plan to leverage his all-around skill set, while Kennelly’s varied use in the secondary highlights a potential fourth safety or flexible hybrid role. Hassanein’s injury adds a layer of urgency to prove depth behind Ya-Sin, Branch, and Joseph. On offense and defense, the staff is testing position swaps and multi-positional players to build a more adaptable roster for a longer season.

Highlights

The roster puzzle keeps turning as Week 3 approaches.