In their preseason finale on August 24, 2024, the Detroit Lions clinched a 24-17 victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The game served as a crucial opportunity for players to solidify their spots on the 53-man roster ahead of the final cuts on August 28. While the Lions showcased some standout performances, they also revealed critical areas of concern as they prepare for the upcoming regular season.
3 Studs from the Detroit Lions Preseason Finale
1. Isaac Ukwu – Defensive End
Isaac Ukwu was a standout on defense, making a strong case for a roster spot. He recorded a sack, a tackle for loss, and forced a fumble, showcasing his ability to disrupt the opponent’s offense. His performance adds depth to the Lions’ defensive front and increases his chances of making the final roster.
2. Ty Summers – Linebacker
Ty Summers led the charge for the Lions’ front seven, contributing 1.5 sacks and consistently pressuring the Steelers’ quarterback. Summers’ performance in this game highlighted the depth the Lions have at linebacker, making him a valuable asset as they head into the regular season.
3. Nate Sudfeld – Quarterback
Although Nate Sudfeld did not play in this game, his steady improvement throughout the preseason, combined with the inconsistency shown by fellow quarterback Hendon Hooker, seems to have secured him the backup quarterback position. His progress has been a positive note for the Detroit Lions, who need reliable depth behind their starting quarterback.
3 Duds from the Detroit Lions Preseason Finale
1. Hendon Hooker – Quarterback
Hendon Hooker struggled to make a convincing case for the backup quarterback role. He completed only 12 of 20 passes for 114 yards and threw an interception, failing to capitalize on his opportunities. Hooker’s performance raised doubts about his readiness to step into a backup role. That said, I would still be surprised if Hooker is not on the initial 53-man roster.
2. Offensive Line
The Detroit Lions’ offensive line continued to be a concern, allowing five sacks and struggling to create running lanes. The line’s inability to protect the quarterback and support the run game hindered the team’s overall offensive performance. This ongoing issue could be problematic if not addressed before the regular season begins.
3. Wide Receiver Depth
The search for a reliable wide receiver three remains unresolved. While Kalif Raymond has been a solid option, the Lions still lack a clear candidate for the X receiver role. Players like Isaiah Williams (who is my UDFA favorite to crack the roster) and Kaden Davis had minimal impact during the game, leaving the coaching staff with unanswered questions as roster cuts approach.
Looking Ahead to the Regular Season
As the Detroit Lions prepare to transition from the preseason to their regular season opener against the Los Angeles Rams, the blend of impressive performances by promising players and critical shortcomings reveals a team still in development. The coming days will be pivotal as the coaching staff makes key decisions on who will contribute to the success of the Detroit Lions in the 2024 season.
