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Detroit Lions finalize 53-man roster and practice squad
The Detroit Lions have finalized their initial 53-man roster and announced a 14-player practice squad for the 2026 season. Key roster decisions include naming veteran Josh Dobbs as the primary backup quarterback, while undrafted rookie Luke Altmyer was waived. The practice squad features several players from training camp, including Mason Miller, Tyre West, and Tom Kennedy.
In a notable roster move, wide receiver Greg Dortch was released from the active roster but is expected to sign with the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad. Other notable Lions roster developments include Jackson Meeks securing a spot as a converted tight end, while safeties Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch have been placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
The Lions' practice squad aims to provide depth and development, with head coach Dan Campbell emphasizing that the group is an extension of the active roster rather than just a collection of reserve players.
Entities
Brad Holmes · Buffalo Bills · Dan Campbell · Detroit Lions · Greg Dortch · Jackson Meeks · Jared Goff · Josh Dobbs · Joshua Dobbs
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The team kept five running backs: Jahmyr Gibbs, Isiah Pacheco, Sione Vaki, Jacob Saylors, and Jabari Small.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Joshua Dobbs was selected as the backup quarterback to Jared Goff.
- [● 2 SOURCES] The roster includes four wide receivers: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Isaac TeSlaa, and Tay Martin.
- [● 4 SOURCES] The Detroit Lions released their initial 53-man roster for the 2026 season.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The roster includes 11 defensive linemen.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Undrafted free agent Eric O'Neill was kept as a depth player in the edge rusher room.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Tight end Jackson Meeks was kept on the roster over veteran Tyler Conklin.
- [● 2 SOURCES] The team waived rookie quarterback Luke Altmyer.