The Detroit Lions began their 2026 training camp on Wednesday, July 29, at their facility in Allen Park, Michigan.
Head coach Dan Campbell oversaw the first practice, which featured evaluations across several key positions.
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Quarterback Jared Goff demonstrated efficiency during team periods, connecting with wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams despite pressure from the secondary.
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The team is focusing on competitions at right tackle, left guard, and the starting cornerback role opposite D.
J. Reed.
Rookie cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. took first-team reps alongside veteran Rock Ya-Sin, while Nick Whiteside recorded multiple pass breakups.
Campbell praised Rakestraw's natural ability. "He's got excellent feet.
His hips, man, his change of direction. He's got ball skills," Campbell said.
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"He can track the ball down the field."
The coaching staff is evaluating Rakestraw's versatility.
"That's probably where he'll have most of his time, but yet let's see what he can do inside too," Campbell added.
Running back Jahmyr Gibbs did not participate in the opening practice due to ongoing contract negotiations. Campbell noted that both sides are working through the matter.
"You guys know how we feel about Gibbs and all of our guys ... so we'll take this as it comes," he said.
At safety, veterans Chuck Clark and Avonte Maddox handled most first-team reps due to injuries affecting the position.
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Special teams drills included wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown, Greg Dortch, Dominic Lovett, Tom Kennedy, and Lawrence Keys, along with running back Isiah Pacheco, operating as punt returners following the departure of Kalif Raymond.
