Lions shine in win over Chiefs
- Hendon Hooker and Jake Bates stood out in the Lions' victory over the Chiefs.
- Hooker is deserving of a starting position in the upcoming games.
- Rookie Sione Vaki has been a standout offensive player for the Lions in the preseason.
In Week 2 of the preseason, the Detroit Lions took the opportunity to assess the depth of their roster, particularly focusing on players vying for a spot on the team. With the preseason progressing, there is a growing anticipation for standout performances, especially from Sione Vaki, who has emerged as a potential offensive MVP. Vaki showcased his skills with 10 touches for 82 yards, proving his value not only on special teams but also as a receiver during training camp. The Lions are actively seeking a reliable receiver to complement their existing roster, which includes Amon-Ra St. Brown and Kalif Raymond. Williams, a slot-first receiver, is making a strong case for his inclusion, despite the redundancy in his position. Head coach Dan Campbell acknowledged Williams' efforts, indicating that his preseason performance has kept him in contention for a roster spot. On the special teams front, kicker Jake Bates had a mixed day, but his contributions were noted as he continues to earn valuable reps. The coaching staff is keen on evaluating his capabilities, which could influence his chances of making the final roster. Meanwhile, defensive undrafted rookie Josh Paschal appears to have secured his place on the 53-man roster, although his presence in the fourth quarter of a preseason game raised some eyebrows among observers. Overall, the Lions are in a critical phase of roster evaluation as they prepare for the upcoming season.