Dave Fipp Drops Clues About Detroit Lions’ Final Roster

Detroit Lions special teams coordinator Dave Fipp offered insights into how the team evaluates players at the bottom of the roster. This information could help understand which players' chances of making the final 53-man roster might improve as cutdown day approaches.

Fipp emphasized that roster construction has changed and players must now make the team in two phases. A player fighting for a fifth or sixth spot on the roster can't simply focus on their primary position. They need to contribute on offense or defense while also handling meaningful special teams assignments.

One player who seems to fit this profile is Sione Vaki. He has excelled in special teams, recording 10 tackles during the 2025 season, and his value in this area will likely secure his spot on the roster. Special teams play, particularly in the kicking game, can justify a player's presence on the team even if their impact on offense or defense is limited.

The linebacker competition appears to be the most significant area of roster uncertainty, with several players vying for spots. Fipp specifically mentioned Derrick Barnes, Malcolm Rodriguez, Devin White, Trevor Nowaske, Joe Bachie, Troy Reeder, Amen Ogbongbemiga and Damone Clark as key players. With six linebackers already established, the team may consider carrying seven if the final player provides more value on special teams than other positions.

Undrafted rookie Hunter may also be a high-upside gamble. He has demonstrated skills on special teams but has made mental mistakes that could affect his reliability on punt coverage. If Detroit decides to trust Hunter, he could serve as a valuable asset in their rotation.

Detroit may have already decided on Greg Dortch as the primary punt returner, with Tom Kennedy remaining in the competition. Kennedy's experience and ability to provide reliable snaps at receiver make him a valuable option in the late stages of roster construction. However, Dominic Lovett faces a tough decision. If he doesn't emerge as a top punt returner, he must establish value in other areas of the special teams to justify his inclusion on the roster.