Detroit Lions make several roster moves ahead of Week 1 vs. Saints

On August 3, 2026, the Detroit Lions made several roster adjustments ahead of their Week 1 game against the New Orleans Saints. The team began the week with two spots open on their 53-man roster. Detroit subsequently announced that linebacker Joe Bachie was promoted from the practice squad to the 53-man roster, providing additional depth within the already competitive linebacker position.

Meanwhile, Seth McLaughlin and Mason Miller signed with the practice squad. McLaughlin's return is anticipated, given the absence of a reliable backup center to Juice Scruggs. Small, on the other hand, may feature in some game-day scenarios, despite Isiah Pacheco starting the season on the injured reserve list.

Alas, Miller's stint on the injured reserve list was disheartening. He displayed commendable performance as the team's emergency center during the final preseason game, despite lacking experience at that position. As of now, Miller will not count towards the practice squad's 16-player limit. Detroit still has an open spot on its 53-man roster, with wide receiver Tom Kennedy being the frontrunner.

However, the Lions may defer this decision until the following week, as Kennedy's inclusion would render his contract fully guaranteed. Kennedy is expected to serve as the starting punt returner and one of the four or five wide receivers on Sunday's squad.