Lions camp observations: Injured list swells, Whiteside gets looks higher up depth chart, and Jake Bates showcases leg strength
Allen Park — Here are some notes and observations from the Detroit Lions’ Tuesday morning training camp practice.
● Detroit’s injury list got a little bit longer as the team wrapped its first week of practices.
It starts with running back Sione Vaki, who got worse-than-expected news after taking a shot to the face on Monday and exiting to be evaluated for an eye injury. Not only did the third-year back take a finger to the eye, he also suffered a broken nose, which will sideline him for an undetermined amount of time.
Additionally, veteran tight end Anthony Firkser, who only recently rejoined the team, saw his season come to an abrupt end after fracturing his fibula on Monday. Already down Tyler Conklin and Miles Kitselman at the position, the team was forced to re-sign Zach Horton, who was released days ago.
During Tuesday’s practice, linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez left to be evaluated for an ankle injury. It didn’t look too bad, given he returned to the field after practice to play with his young daughter, who was in attendance.
Finally, defensive end Peyton Turner missed his fifth straight practice with a back injury. The longer he’s out, the more the low-risk signing’s roster chances dwindle.
● The roster was back in full pads for a second straight day, opening with some one-on-ones between the receivers and defensive backs after stretching and individual drills.
Let’s quickly fire through some observations from that segment.