The Detroit Lions leaned heavily on multi–tight end formations during the final two seasons with Ben Johnson serving as offensive coordinator. In 2023 and 2024, Detroit ranked second and tied for first in plays run out of “12” personnel, according to SumerSports.

Although the Lions did not dramatically reduce the number of snaps from that personnel grouping last season under offensive coordinator John Morton, another team stood out in that area—the Arizona Cardinals. Their offense was led by new Detroit offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, whose system frequently featured multiple tight ends. Arizona also ranked third in the NFL in the usage rate of “13” personnel, which includes three tight ends.

Petzing is expected to adjust his scheme to match Detroit’s roster strengths, but his history of deploying multiple tight ends aligns with the growing trend across the NFL. During the offseason, the Lions signed Tyler Conklin to add depth behind Sam LaPorta. Conklin is known more for his receiving ability than his blocking, giving Detroit another option in the passing game.

At the moment, Brock Wright projects as the team’s primary blocking tight end when the Lions deploy “12” or “13” personnel packages. However, both film evaluation and grades from Pro Football Focus indicate his blocking performance has been inconsistent over the past couple of seasons. With Conklin likely to command a portion of tight end targets in the passing attack, Wright’s role could come under increased scrutiny.

Lions’ UDFA tight end drawing attention

Among Detroit’s undrafted rookie free agents, Nick Baumgardner of The Athletic highlighted tight end Miles Kitselman as a player worth watching.

Kitselman spent two seasons with the Tennessee Volunteers football and averaged 11.5 yards per reception during that span, suggesting there could still be untapped potential in his receiving ability. Still, much like Lions head coach Dan Campbell during his playing career, Kitselman’s primary value could come as a blocker at the next level.

Campbell played 10 seasons in the NFL as a tight end despite modest receiving production, building his reputation largely through his blocking and toughness. That playing style could serve as a blueprint for Kitselman as he begins his professional career in Detroit.

Kitselman’s college film may have convinced the Lions to prioritize him as an undrafted free agent signing. If Campbell sees similarities between Kitselman’s skill set and his own former role, it likely strengthened the case for bringing him in to compete for a roster spot.

With Detroit emphasizing multi–tight end formations and searching for a reliable blocking presence, Kitselman could emerge as a surprise contender during training camp—potentially putting additional pressure on Wright as the Lions finalize their tight end depth chart.