Lions camp observations: Jaw-dropping Williams route, DB performance highlight team's first red zone work
Allen Park — Here are some notes and observations from the Detroit Lions’ Monday morning training camp practice.
● As usual, let’s start with a participation report.
The Lions got back two injured players on Monday, with running back Sione Vaki (hamstring) and rookie safety Ian Kennelly returning to action. Additionally, linebacker Alex Anzalone and defensive end Al-Quadian Muhammad competed in team drills for the first time after returning to practice over the weekend.
In terms of absences, Kerby Joseph missed a second straight. Slot cornerback Amik Robertson was also sidelined. Joseph declined interview requests after practice, so we’ll need to wait until Tuesday for an update from coach Dan Campbell. Robertson told reporters his issue wasn’t a big deal. Additionally, with the starting secondary, DJ Reed continues to be limited to individual drills.
Veteran Avonte Maddox continued to rep in place of Joseph. Rock-Ya Sin and Eric Hallett snagged first-team reps in place of Reed and Robertson, respectively.
Finally, running back Kyle Robichaux suffered an injury early in practice and didn’t return.
● The padded practice, the team's third of camp, opened up with a second batch of one-on-one tackling. It was a much better showing for the defense this go-around, except for linebacker Jack Campbell, who twice whiffed when running back David Montgomery juked inside.
Among the defenders to win both of their reps: Linebacker Derrick Barnes, linebacker Grant Stuard, cornerback Rock Ya-Sin and safety Loren Strickland. Ya-Sin had a vicious tackle on rookie receiver Jackson Meeks, essentially lifting the runner off the ground and suplexing him. It probably would have drawn a flag in a game situation, but it looked cool. Strickland, meanwhile, not only scored two stops but also forced Meeks to fumble.