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Detroit Lions OTA Update: What We’re Learning in June
The offseason calendar may still say June, but the Detroit Lions are already building the foundation for what they hope will be a bounce-back season in 2026. OTA practices are underway, the rookie class is settling in, and the coaching staff is beginning the long process of turning offseason plans into on-field results.
On this episode of the Detroit Lions Podcast, Chris and Jeff Risdon take a deep dive into the latest OTA updates, examine some lingering roster questions, and tackle one of the most interesting long-term storylines surrounding the organization. They also find time to enjoy one of the more amusing developments elsewhere in the NFC North.
The football may not count yet, but the conversations absolutely do.
OTA Observations and Early Position Battles
The biggest takeaway from the opening phase of OTAs is that this roster remains remarkably competitive. The Lions continue to benefit from a strong core built by Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell, but there are plenty of jobs still available for younger players looking to establish themselves.
The 2026 draft class has already generated attention, with first-round selection Blake Miller beginning the process of integrating into one of the NFL's most respected offensive line rooms. While OTA practices rarely provide definitive answers, they do offer clues about how coaches envision player roles heading into training camp.
The coaching staff is also evaluating depth throughout the secondary, linebacker room, and defensive front. Detroit learned difficult lessons about depth during recent seasons, and the organization appears determined to create competition throughout the roster.
There are also the inevitable Lions injury concerns that accompany every spring. OTAs are designed to build toward September, not win headlines in June. Managing workloads, monitoring recovery timelines, and ensuring key veterans arrive healthy for training camp remains one of the most important objectives of the offseason.
The Kerby Joseph Question
Few players have generated more discussion this offseason than Kerby Joseph.
The talented safety has become one of the more impactful playmakers in Detroit's defense, but his future remains a topic of conversation among Lions fans. Is he a foundational piece of the franchise's long-term plans? What would a potential extension look like? How does Detroit balance roster building with future salary cap commitments?
These are the kinds of questions that become increasingly important as successful teams transition from building a roster to maintaining one.
Chris and Jeff will examine where Joseph fits into the broader picture and what his future could mean for the Lions moving forward.
Meanwhile, in Chicago...
No NFC North discussion would be complete without checking in on the division rivals.
The latest developments surrounding the Chicago Bears and their ongoing stadium saga have created plenty of conversation across the Midwest. The possibility of the Bears ultimately leaving Illinois for a new stadium development in Indiana has sparked strong reactions from fans, politicians, and just about everyone else with an opinion on the matter.
For Lions fans, it serves as a reminder that not every offseason storyline revolves around football. Sometimes the most entertaining developments happen far away from the field.
Join Chris and Jeff Risdon on the Detroit Lions Podcast for a complete 2026 OTA Update, including roster observations, injury concerns, Kerby Joseph's future, NFC North developments, and everything else happening around the Detroit Lions as preparations for the 2026 NFL season continue.
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