Isaac TeSlaa
Getty
Lions head coach Dan Campbell had an encouraging update on Isaac TeSlaa's Week 1 status
The Detroit Lions have one clear goal entering the 2025 season, and that’s to win a Super Bowl. After posting back-to-back dominant regular season campaigns, only to come up short in the playoffs, it’s clear that the Lions have a chip on their shoulder, and while they suffered some losses on their coaching staff over the offseason, they still have one of the most talented rosters in the league.
That includes a new crop of rookies, with one of the team’s brightest stars of the summer being wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa. TeSlaa missed Detroit’s first practice of the regular season on Tuesday, but head coach Dan Campbell provided a positive update on his Week 1 status that will ease fans’ concerns.
Dan Campbell’s Encouraging Isaac TeSlaa Injury Update
TeSlaa put himself on the map after a pair of strong seasons with the Arkansas Razorbacks. In 2024, TeSlaa caught 28 passes for 545 yards and three touchdowns, showing off his big-play ability throughout the year. That caught the attention of the Lions, who selected TeSlaa in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
The decision to draft TeSlaa was a bit of a surprise, as Detroit is well-stocked on offensive weapons. Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams are leading the wide receiver room, with Sam LaPorta being one of the top tight ends in the league. In the backfield, Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery are threats to make plays, both as runners and receivers.
And even with all that being said, TeSlaa was one of the team’s top performers during training camp and the team’s preseason play. While he did miss practice on Tuesday, Campbell revealed that it was only because TeSlaa is dealing with a minor illness, while also stating that he believes he will be on the field come Week 1.
“He just had a little bug,” Campbell told 97.1 The Ticket. “I think he’ll be alright here. He’s coming in the building today. He’s been in virtual (meetings). I know he feels a lot better, but we’ll see.”
Lions Hoping Isaac TeSlaa Can Contribute Right Out of the Gate
Isaac TeSlaa
GettyLions head coach Dan Campbell had an encouraging update on Isaac TeSlaa’s Week 1 status
St. Brown and Williams are leading the way in the Lions’ wide receiver room, with Kalif Raymond and Dominic Lovett also filling in the depth chart. That means TeSlaa may have limited opportunities to begin with, but his unique size (6’4) could help him find his way onto the field in some of Detroit’s offensive packages. Beyond that, he will also be asked to contribute on special teams.
It’s not glamorous, but TeSlaa is going to have to put in his time before he earns a bigger role in the Lions offense. The first step involves staying on the field, and it sounds like his absence won’t be a long one. After logging a limited participation on Detroit’s estimated injury report on Wednesday, look for TeSlaa to log a full participation over the next two days as the Lions finish off their preparations for their Week 1 opener against the Green Bay Packers.