The Detroit Lions kicked off their 2025 training camp with a condensed one-and-a-half hour practice on Sunday. While some aspects played out as expected, several injuries and depth chart surprises emerged.
The team’s first-string offensive line, featuring Dan Skipper at left tackle, Christian Mahogany at left guard, Tate Ratledge at center, Graham Glasgow at right guard, and Penei Sewell at right tackle, showed promising signs of unity. However, the lack of pads limited the team’s performance evaluation.
Among the notable absentees were Levi Onwuzurike (ACL surgery), Alex Anzalone, Al-Quadin Muhammad, and Anthony Pittman. Ennis Rakestraw left practice early with a chest injury. Taylor Decker, who was listed on the PUP list, participated fully, as did Josh Paschal, despite being on NFI.
Coach Dan Campbell emphasized the need for depth at the offensive line, stating that he’s looking for guys to step up and help the team. The coaches also experimented with various formations, including two running back sets.
Zach Cunningham is taking on a larger role due to Anzalone’s absence, while Morice Norris and Loren Strickland are capitalizing on their experience in the system.
The practice also saw notable performances from rookie Ian Kennelly, who made the play of the day with an impressive interception. Other UDFA rookies like Jackson Meeks and Zach Horton also caught passes during 7-on-7 drills.
In special teams news, Grant Stuard is competing for the personal protector role on punts, while Amik Robertson and Rock Ya-Sin worked together at gunner. The team’s punt block formation remained unchanged, with Sione Vaki and Craig Reynolds returning as outside “wings.”
Source: https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2025/7/20/24470977/detroit-lions-2025-training-camp-day-1-observations-tate-ratledge-opens-at-center