As the Detroit Lions wrapped up their first week of Organized Team Activities, a few early storylines began to emerge. While it is important not to overreact to practices that are still voluntary and conducted without pads, the first week offered some clues about how the coaching staff views certain position battles and players heading into training camp.
One of the most notable developments was rookie offensive tackle Blake Miller receiving the majority of the first-team reps at right tackle. There are a few possible explanations for why Miller was immediately given such a significant workload. The Lions were the only NFL team to skip rookie minicamp this year, meaning the coaching staff may simply be looking to accelerate his development by giving him as many reps as possible during OTAs. However, it could also be a sign that Detroit sees Miller as a legitimate frontrunner for the starting job and wants him working alongside the first-team offense from the start.
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The right tackle competition is one of the most important battles on the roster this offseason, and Miller’s early usage suggests the Lions are serious about evaluating whether the rookie can handle the role. With another week of OTAs on the horizon, it will be worth monitoring whether Miller continues to dominate the first-team snaps or if we see more of Larry Borom rotating into the competition.
Another position battle that appears to be taking shape is at linebacker. Malcolm Rodriguez seemed to be leading the race for the third linebacker spot throughout the first week of practices. With veteran Alex Anzalone no longer in the picture, there are opportunities available for players to step into larger roles, and Rodriguez appears determined to seize one. His familiarity with the defense and consistent production whenever called upon could give him an early advantage as the competition continues.
The Lions will return to the practice field from June 2 through June 4 for the second week of voluntary OTAs, and while fans should expect many of the same storylines to continue, there could be a few new developments worth watching.
One thing that would not be surprising is seeing several of Detroit’s younger players receive increased opportunities with the first-team units. Last year during the second week of OTAs, former second-round cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. received extensive reps alongside the starters as the coaching staff evaluated where he fit into the secondary. A similar approach could be taken again this year.
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Rakestraw enters a pivotal season in his NFL career. Despite possessing plenty of talent, injuries have prevented him from gaining momentum early in his tenure with the Lions. Through his first two seasons, Rakestraw has appeared in just eight games after suffering season-ending injuries in both years. If healthy, the Lions would undoubtedly like to see what they have in the former second-round pick, and OTA practices provide a perfect opportunity to give him meaningful reps against top competition.
Week two could also bring a few familiar faces back to Allen Park. The Lions have frequently welcomed former players and franchise legends to practices throughout the offseason. Last year, Hall of Fame wide receiver Calvin Johnson made an appearance during the second week of OTAs, drawing plenty of attention from players, and staff. It would not be surprising to see another former Lions great stop by this year as the organization continues to embrace its alumni.
Perhaps most importantly, week two should provide a clearer picture of several roster battles that are still in their infancy. Whether it is the competition at right tackle, the battle for linebacker snaps, or young players attempting to carve out larger roles, every practice provides another opportunity for someone to move up the depth chart.
It is still early in the offseason program, but the second week of OTAs could begin separating players who are merely competing from those who are positioning themselves to make a real impact when the 2026 season arrives.