The Detroit Lions are heading into an offseason where roster decisions won’t come easy.

After bringing in more than 10 outside free agents and preparing to add even more talent through the upcoming draft, Detroit is building serious depth across multiple positions. While that’s a positive for competition, it also means some current players could be squeezed out. NFL teams are allowed to carry up to 90 players during training camp, but that number must be reduced to 53 before the regular season begins.

Because of this, several players currently on the roster may find themselves on the bubble when final cuts are made. Here are five individuals who could struggle to secure a spot on the Lions’ Week 1 roster in 2026.

 Tyler Lacy (Defensive Line)

Tyler Lacy’s position on the team has become less secure following Detroit’s offseason moves along the defensive front. The team added edge rushers like D. J. Wonnum and Payton Turner, increasing competition and potentially limiting his role.

Lacy contributed in a rotational capacity last season after being claimed off waivers and showed flashes of potential. However, with more depth at defensive end, he may need to transition more permanently inside. That shift won’t be easy, especially with Levi Onwuzurike returning and continuing to develop into a reliable contributor.

If Detroit invests further in the defensive line during the draft, Lacy could find himself on the outside looking in.

Michael Niese (Offensive Line)

Detroit made a clear effort to strengthen its offensive line this offseason, bringing in players like Cade Mays, Larry Borom, and Juice Scruggs. Combined with returning young talent such as Tate Ratledge and Christian Mahogany, the interior line has quickly become crowded.

Backup roles are likely to be filled by Scruggs and second-year lineman Miles Frazier, leaving limited opportunities for others. Niese, who served as a depth piece last season, now faces significant pressure to prove his value.

While he has stepped in when needed before, he hasn’t established a consistent role, and that could work against him in a more competitive group.

Loren Strickland (Safety)

The safety position could feature one of the most competitive battles in training camp. Loren Strickland has been a steady presence in the organization for a few years, but roster space may not be on his side this time.

Detroit expects starters Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch to return from injuries, while backups Thomas Harper and Christian Izien add depth and versatility.

Strickland’s competition may come down to a direct battle with Dan Jackson, a younger player the team could prioritize for development. That makes his chances of sticking on the roster uncertain.

Colby Sorsdal (Offensive Line)

Colby Sorsdal enters a crucial offseason as he approaches the final year of his rookie deal. After missing last season due to injury, he’ll need to make an immediate impression in training camp.

He saw action as a rookie, appearing in multiple games and making a few starts, but his role diminished the following year. Now, with increased competition across the offensive line, his path back into a roster spot is far from guaranteed.

Trying to earn a role at tackle could improve his chances, but even there, added depth and potential draft picks may create further obstacles.

Zach Horton (Tight End)

With a new offensive approach under coordinator Drew Petzing, Detroit could lean more heavily on multi-tight end formations. Even so, the numbers game at the position may not favor Zach Horton.

The Lions already have established options in Sam LaPorta, Brock Wright, and newly added Tyler Conklin. That trio provides a strong mix of blocking and receiving ability.

Although Horton showed versatility in camp by contributing as both a tight end and fullback, it may not be enough to earn him a permanent spot. A return to the practice squad appears to be a more realistic outcome unless he stands out significantly.

Overall, the Lions’ improved depth is a good problem to have—but it also means some capable players won’t make the final cut. Training camp will be critical in determining who earns a place on the 2026 roster and who gets left behind.