The Detroit Lions are in the thick of one of the NFL’s most difficult annual traditions, roster cutdown day. By Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, every team must trim down to 53 players, and head coach Dan Campbell made it clear Monday that the process is every bit as brutal as fans imagine.
“Today will be a tough day,” Campbell said, noting that he and general manager Brad Holmes had already discussed their approach Sunday night. “You gotta do it. You wanna do as respectfully as you can. You don’t wanna lie to the player… it’s worse on them than it is on us.”
Respecting the Players, Respecting the Process
Campbell emphasized that the Lions try to handle cuts with honesty and dignity. Still, he acknowledged the harsh reality: a player may think he’s safe, only for Detroit to find an upgrade through waiver claims and make a late change.
Reporter Dannie Rogers explained that Campbell avoids telling players they’ve “made it” for that very reason. “Guys can take an exhale 4 p.m. Tuesday and kind of can’t. Crazy process,” she wrote.
Deepest Roster of the Campbell Era
Despite the difficult emotions surrounding cut day, Campbell struck an optimistic tone when discussing the state of Detroit’s roster. Both he and Holmes believe this is the best group they’ve fielded since taking over in 2021.
“Year 5, this is the best we’ve felt about it from top to bottom,” Campbell said. While he admitted that no NFL roster is without holes, he praised Holmes for the depth and balance built across the board.
Lions reporters Tim Twentyman and Eric Woodyard echoed the sentiment, quoting Campbell as saying this is “the deepest Lions roster he’s had entering a season.”
What’s Next
Campbell confirmed that most players will learn their fate Monday, with the Lions planning to deliver the bulk of decisions before the deadline. For those who don’t make it, Campbell had a message of encouragement: “Use this as fuel.”
Detroit now turns its attention toward finalizing its practice squad and filling any remaining gaps with potential waiver claims. But for the first time in years, Campbell believes the Lions are entering the season with true depth, and a roster capable of meeting their Super Bowl aspirations.