Lions use final practice squad elevation on veteran safety
The Detroit Lions have used their final practice squad elevation on veteran safety Jalen Mills.
On October 4, 2026, in Charlotte, North Carolina, the Detroit Lions made a single roster adjustment for their upcoming game against the Arizona Cardinals. The move involved promoting veteran safety Jalen Mills from the practice squad. This marks the third consecutive week Mills has been elevated, as the Lions contend with an injury-depleted secondary featuring Avonte Maddox (IR), Thomas Harper (IR), and Brian Branch (PUP).
Despite not playing during his first elevation, Mills logged four defensive snaps and seven special teams snaps during his second appearance against the Carolina Panthers. Lions coach Dan Campbell expressed confidence that Mills and fellow veteran Keith Abney will assume more significant roles in the upcoming game. With three practice squad elevations for Mills, the Lions have reached the limit, necessitating a 53-man roster spot for any further use.
However, the Lions enjoy a bye week ahead and are expected to have Pro Bowl safety Brian Branch ready for their Week 7 matchup against the Green Bay Packers. Depending on Mills' performance against the Cardinals, he could potentially earn a spot on the Lions' 53-man roster, considering the team's current struggles at the safety position.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
