3 cut candidates on Lions roster amid NFL training camp

The Detroit Lions roster has become a talking point amid the 2024 NFL training camp. While some names are guaranteed to make the 53-man roster for the upcoming season, the Lions will need to decide their cuts before Aug. 29.

The Lions had a fabulous run in 2023 and made it to their first NFC championship game since 1991. They were one game away from reaching the Super Bowl before losing to the San Francisco 49ers.

Detroit still has most of its core team from last year heading into the 2024 season. But there'll be a handful of players who might not make it to the 53-man roster.

3 cut candidates on Detroit Lions roster ahead of 2024 NFL season

Will Dan Skipper make it to the 53-man Lions roster? (Source: Imagn)

Candidate No. 1: Dan Skipper, OT

Skipper is in his fourth stint with the Detroit Lions but he may be surplus to requirements for the team in 2024. The Lions have Taylor Decker and Penei Sewell as their starters on right and left tackle. Meanwhile, rookies Giovanni Manu and Christian Mahogany are likely to get opportunities in the upcoming season.

Even Colby Sorsdal is likely to remain above Skipper in the pecking order, which suggests that the latter might be cut from the Lions roster later this month.

Candidate No. 2: Levi Onwuzurike, DT

The Lions selected Onwuzurike in the second round of the 2021 NFL draft. However, the defensive tackle has not had a smooth run in the league due to his recurring injuries.

Detroit will likely use Alim McNeill and D.J. Reader as the starting defensive tackles in 2024. The likes of Brodric Martin and rookie Mekhi Wingo will serve as backups. Furthermore, edge players John Cominsky and Josh Paschal can also adapt to play in this position.

After failing to make an impression in Detroit across three years, Onwuzurike might be left out of the Lions roster heading into the 2024 season.

Candidate No. 3: Michael Badgley, Placekicker

Badgley began his second stint with the Detroit Lions in 2023. The placekicker made all of his four field goals last season. However, Badgley has been dealt a big blow with a hamstring injury that will keep him out of the 2024 season.

The injury could also lead to his omission from the team's 53-man roster since he won't play a part in the upcoming season. Since Badgley won't feature for Detroit, Jake Bates is expected to take his place on the Lions roster.