Lions joint practice observations: Offense stays hot, defense starts slow, finishes strong on Day 2 vs. Dolphins
Allen Park — Here are some notes and observations from the Detroit Lions’ Thursday morning training camp practice, the second joint session with the Miami Dolphins.
● Detroit got a few players back for Thursday’s practice, led by earlier-than-expected team reps for cornerback Terrion Arnold. Also back in uniform were wide receivers Dominic Lovett and Tom Kennedy and defensive tackle Pat O’Connor, although they were all limited.
Not practicing were safeties Kerby Joseph and Morice Norris (concussion), wide receivers Tim Patrick (quad) and Malik Taylor, offensive tackle Giovanni Manu, center Tyrstan Colon (elbow) and tight end Sam LaPorta.
Lions coach Dan Campbell announced LaPorta would be down for a little bit before practice with a minor injury concern, but declined to offer specifics on the issue.
With LaPorta out, rookie Zach Horton received a temporary bump up to the depth chart, taking some first-team reps.
● Flipping from yesterday’s focus, I spent the morning watching Detroit’s offense, leaving most of the defensive observations to podcast partner Will Burchfield of 97.1 and Fox 2 fame. Having that backstop has been a lifesaver.
● Initial observations come from one-on-one pass-rush drills between Miami’s defensive linemen and linebackers against Detroit’s offensive line. It was a strong showing for the Lions’ projected starters.