Detroit GM Martin Mayhew tried to address some weaknesses through the draft by selecting defensive players with his team's final six picks. The "unofficial" depth chart, which was released Tuesday, illustrates how much some of those rookies have impressed coaches, while others have plenty of work to do.
D-line: The Lions are expected to keep nine linemen on the roster, and eight of those spots are accounted for by first- and second-team units that are virtually unchanged from last season. That leaves three players -- DT Andre Fluellen, and DEs Ronnell Lewis and Everette Brown -- locked in what looks like a battle for the final spot. All three are listed as third-team players, but Lewis’ special teams experience could give him an edge.
Linebacker: Rookie Tahir Whitehead’s performances early in camp have led veterans to describe him using words such as “beast,” “freak” and “complete athlete.” He’s taken reps with the second team throughout camp, and earned a similar position. The bigger battle during Friday’s preseason opener will be between rookie third-team LBs Travis Lewis and Carmen Messina. Of the two, Lewis has a better grasp of the defense, but Messina may have better athleticism. Both players face uphill battles to make the roster, as Detroit typically only keeps six LBs.
Secondary: The first secondary depth chart of the season illustrates the fact that coach Jim Schwartz gives little credence to any written lineup card. Bill Bentley’s consistency during drills has seen him take first-team reps in nearly every workout, but he’s listed with the second team on the depth chart. Detroit’s “starters” at CB and safety include Louis Delmas and Chris Houston. Both players have missed time in camp with injuries and what Schwartz described as “soreness.” Neither player, however, is listed as an injured player on the chart. Defensive back Alphonso Smith also is listed on the first team, despite the fact that he has taken some second-team reps during camp. Another surprising development on the depth chart is the placement of free agent signing safety Sean Jones on the second team. Jones hasn’t done much to stand out during drills, so the fact that he was ranked ahead of John Wendling -- who has taken some first-team reps when injuries affected the safety group -- is noteworthy.
Follow Lions reporter John Kreger on Twitter @CBSSportsNFLDET and @johnkreger.
