The Detroit Lions have taken significant steps in enhancing their practice squad, with recent updates highlighting two notable additions. As reported by Jordan Schultz, Donovan Peoples-Jones is set to rejoin the Lions’ practice squad. Meanwhile, Mike Garafolo has revealed that quarterback Jake Fromm will also be signing with Detroit’s practice squad.
The trajectories of Peoples-Jones and Fromm reveal contrasting stories. Peoples-Jones, who was acquired by the Lions through a trade during the 2023 season, entered the offseason with high expectations. He was initially seen as a strong contender for a starting receiver role, particularly in light of Josh Reynolds’ departure. However, Peoples-Jones faced challenges during training camp, and his performance in the preseason was lackluster, with only two receptions on nine targets.
Despite these struggles, the Lions decided to re-sign Peoples-Jones, signaling their belief in his potential to turn things around. Initially, it seemed that the team might have addressed the receiver position with the signing of former Broncos receiver Tim Patrick to their practice squad. Nonetheless, Detroit’s decision to bring back Peoples-Jones suggests they still see value in his abilities and are hopeful for his development.
In contrast, Jake Fromm’s path to the practice squad has been somewhat unconventional. Fromm was added to the roster midway through the preseason to cover for Hendon Hooker, who was recovering from a concussion. Hooker’s recovery was quicker than anticipated, allowing him to participate in all preseason games. This development seemed to spell the end of Fromm’s stint with the team. However, Fromm made a strong impression during the final moments of the preseason finale, completing 6 of 8 passes for 89 yards. His performance was instrumental in leading Detroit to a field goal and controlling the clock for a victory.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell expressed his admiration for Fromm’s performance, particularly given his lack of practice reps before the preseason finale. Campbell remarked, “Man, I like Fromm. The kid can play a little ball, there’s something about him. He understands where his answers are at, what to do with the football.” He added that Fromm had caught his attention and was seen as an intriguing prospect, with Campbell noting, “It’s encouraging. It’s good to see, and I know this. He’s got my antenna up. I mean, I see him. So, what does that mean? I don’t quite know yet, but I know this is that he’s intriguing. He’s got a little football player in him.”
Currently, the Lions’ 53-man roster includes starting quarterback Jared Goff and Hendon Hooker, with Jake Fromm positioned on the practice squad. The future of veteran quarterback Nate Sudfeld remains uncertain, and it is yet to be determined if Detroit plans to re-sign him or consider other options.
Overall, the Lions’ decisions reflect a blend of optimism and strategic depth-building. By re-signing Donovan Peoples-Jones and bringing Jake Fromm onto the practice squad, Detroit is not only reinforcing their roster but also signaling their commitment to developing potential talent.
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