The Detroit Lions' 2026 roster is shaping up, and it's time to dive into the players ranked 70-61. These players are on the bubble, with a chance to make the 53-man roster and contribute meaningful snaps. Let's take a closer look at each one and explore their potential impact.
Jay Tufele: The Late Signing
Tufele, a defensive tackle, was a late addition to the Lions' roster this offseason. With the departure of DJ Reader and Roy Lopez, the team needed help at nose tackle. Tufele brings experience, having started seven games and accumulated 46 games and over 760 defensive snaps, including 473 in the last two years. His presence provides depth and a chance to contribute on the defensive line.
Seth McLaughlin: A College Star's Journey
McLaughlin, an interior offensive lineman, is a fascinating case. Just two years ago, he won the Rimington Trophy as college football's best center. However, a torn Achilles cut short his draft prospects. After signing as an undrafted free agent, he didn't make the team and spent his rookie season on the practice squad. With the addition of Cade Mays and the trade for Juice Scruggs, McLaughlin's path to the roster is complicated. He'll need to impress during training camp to secure a spot.
Colby Sorsdal: Struggling to Stay Afloat
Sorsdal, an offensive lineman, has dropped in ranking for two consecutive seasons. Last year, an injury landed him on injured reserve, and this year, he's competing for a spot with established players like Penei Sewell, Blake Miller, Larry Borom, and Giovanni Manu. Sorsdal's journey to the roster is challenging, and he'll need to prove his worth during training camp.
Myles Adams: Time is Running Out
Adams, a defensive tackle, spent all of 2025 on the practice squad with no call-ups. With limited experience and turning 28, he has limited time to make an impression. The Lions' relatively thin depth at defensive tackle gives Adams an outside chance, but he'll need to showcase his skills to secure a spot.
Anthony Lucas: From Hype to Reality
Lucas, an EDGE player, made headlines at Lions minicamp with a fist-throwing scuffle. Initially, there was hype about his potential as a rookie UDFA, being the highest-ranked player in the Consensus Big Board. However, he never lived up to the billing. The Lions are hoping to tap into his athletic potential, but it remains to be seen if he'll make the roster.
Luke Altmyer: Showcasing Smarts and Arm Strength
Altmyer, a quarterback, has impressed with his smarts and arm strength. However, he'll need to command an NFL offense during the preseason to secure a spot. The competition at the position is fierce, and Altmyer will have to prove his worth to make the 53-man roster.
Loren Strickland: Overloaded Depth Chart
Strickland, a safety, had hopes of becoming an impactful special teams player. However, the addition of several safeties like Dan Jackson, Thomas Harper, Avonte Maddox, Chuck Clark, and Christian Izien has overloaded the depth chart. Strickland's path to the field is challenging, and he'll need to stand out during training camp.
Tyre West: Draft Pick's First Appearance
Tyre West, a defensive tackle, is the first player from the Lions' 2026 draft class to appear on this list. His low ranking suggests strong depth, and it's a positive sign that a draft pick is this low. West will have to work hard to secure a spot, but his presence indicates a competitive environment.
Jackson Meeks: Tight End Project
Meeks, a wide receiver, had limited game appearances and special teams snaps as an undrafted rookie. However, there's renewed hope that he could find success at tight end, a position he's been working on since last year. The Lions may want to incubate him on the practice squad for another season, as he's still a project.
Dan Jackson: Eager to Find the Field
Dan Jackson, another safety, missed his entire rookie season due to injury. With the addition of several safeties, his standing has been impacted. However, he was a standout special teamer at Georgia, and the Lions are in search of another four-core specialist. Jackson is eager to contribute and will need to stand out during training camp.
These players on the bubble bring a mix of experience, potential, and challenges. The Lions' roster is taking shape, and these players will play a crucial role in the team's success in 2026.
