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4 Lions' Players Flying Under the Radar Entering Training Camp
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- 4 Lions' Players Flying Under the Radar Entering Training Camp
After a long offseason, training camp has finally arrived for the Detroit Lions . Dan Campbell's squad will take the field for the opening practice of camp on Wednesday as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season.
Entering camp, we've seen a plethora of players receive a ton of buzz, such as the rookie class and other breakout candidates . However, there are also some players not receiving the attention they deserve.
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Let's take a look at four Lions who are flying under the radar ahead of camp this week.
Running back Sione Vaki
Most have already penciled in Isiah Pacheco as the No. 2 running back behind Jahmyr Gibbs , but don't count out Vaki . The 24-year-old was held back by injuries in 2025 , but when on the field, he has flashed his skill set as a dynamic rusher and receiver.
Vaki has also proven to be an impactful special teamer, especially during his rookie season in 2024 when he notched a 90.5 PFF special teams grade . The Utah product doesn't boast the experience or history of production that Pacheco has, but don't be shocked if Vaki pushes for the RB2 job in camp.
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Tackle Larry Borom
Miami Dolphins offensive tackle Larry Borom in July 2025Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Borom signed a one-year deal with the Lions this offseason , and the veteran has a chance to be the Week 1 starting right tackle for the Lions as he gears up for a camp battle with first-round rookie Blake Miller.
In 11 starts with the Miami Dolphins in 2025, Borom held his own, allowing just two sacks and 15 quarterback pressures with a 67.1 PFF pass-blocking grade . The 27-year-old also started 27 games during his four-year stint with the Chicago Bears , so Borom definitely doesn't lack experience.
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Though Detroit invested the No. 17 overall pick in Miller , the Clemson product could use some development, so there's a possibility he starts the season on the bench while Borom assumes the starting role.
Tight End Tyler Conklin
Conklin is also entering his debut campaign with the Lions after signing with Detroit as an unrestricted free agent . The ninth-year tight end tallied just seven receptions for 101 yards with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2025, but two years ago in 2024 with the New York Jets , Conklin was a reliable target, posting 51 catches for 449 yards and four touchdowns.
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The Lions are set to return Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright as their top two tight ends, but Conklin should also be a valuable special teamer and contribute on offense when called upon. The veteran has never been the most polished run blocker, which isn't ideal, but he should contribute in other facets for Detroit.
Tight End/Wide Receiver Jackson Meeks
Meeks may be the most intriguing player on the Lions' roster heading into camp. The 2025 undrafted free agent didn't see the field much during his rookie campaign, but the 23-year-old could see increased snaps with his new position change.
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During spring workouts, Meeks was working as a tight end , and if the Syracuse product can prove that he is comfortable playing the position, his roster chances will skyrocket. Meeks' versatility to play both positions, wide receiver and tight end, could lead to offensive snaps in unique packages, and the 6-foot-2 playmaker should also be able to translate those skills into a special teams role.
Meeks still needs to earn a roster spot in camp, but if he does make the initial 53-man roster, his versatile skill set should be used in multiple areas.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jul 27, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
