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Jackson Meeks' Move to Tight End Became the Lions' Best Summer Storyline
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- Jackson Meeks' Move to Tight End Became the Lions' Best Summer Storyline
Head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes spent Sunday trimming the Detroit Lions roster down to 53 players , meaning we know the fate of most bubble players.
That includes tight end Jackson Meeks, whose position change this offseason has been a major storyline. Meeks spent his entire rookie year in 2025 on the practice squad as a wide receiver, but put on weight in the offseason to be a tight end.
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Meeks was consistently making noise in camp and in the preseason, and he got rewarded with some fantastic news on Sunday.
Jackson Meeks Makes Lions' Initial Roster
Aug 3, 2026; Allen Park, MI, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Jackson Meeks (13) looks on during Detroit Lions training camp. Mandatory Credit: Paul Barnick-Imagn Images
The Lions announced their initial 53-man roster Sunday night, and Meeks made the team. The Syracuse product beat out veteran Tyler Conklin to be Detroit's No. 3 tight end behind Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright.
As camp went on, Meeks only got better, and it was clear that he was in the running for a roster spot. The 23-year-old recorded four catches for 33 receiving yards, and forced a key fumble in the Lions' preseason win over the Washington Commanders on Aug. 22. Meeks hauled in a touchdown in the preseason finale against the Indianapolis Colts, cementing his roster case.
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As the TE3, Meeks will play a pivotal role on special teams and should also see some action on offense. Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing loves to use three-tight-end sets , and with Detroit also having one of the best running backs in the league, Jahmyr Gibbs, Petzing will look to get as many blockers as possible for his explosive back on certain plays to clear rushing lanes.
Overall, Meeks has become the best storyline of the Lions' offseason. The former undrafted free agent changed his position, adapted his skill set, and will now play valuable special teams snaps and possibly tight end snaps for Detroit as a member of the 53-man roster.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Aug 31, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
