We’re rapidly crossing off the days until the start of the regular season, and while we’re not able to watch any NFL games today, Detroit Lions training camp is right around the corner. This will be your one-stop shop for all the necessary information about the Lions’ training camp this summer.
After Jared Goff regained his status as a Pro Bowl QB in 2022, the Lions spent the offseason adding weapons around the former No. 1 overall pick. But they also heavily invested into a defense in desperate need of an overhaul. Now there’s a strong sense of optimism in the Motor City, with fans targeting the NFC North divisional crown. But that work begins now, during training camp.
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Let’s dive into our Detroit Lions training camp guide, previewing the schedule, top storylines, and frequently asked questions.
Detroit Lions training camp schedule
Detroit Lions training camp starts on Saturday, July 29, at 9:30 AM ET. Gates open an hour earlier at 8:30 AM ET. The Lions will also be holding joint practices with other teams this summer, with all events taking place at the Detroit Lions Training Facility in Allen Park, Michigan.
- July 29 – Back Together Weekend – Practice begins at 9:30 AM ET, gates open at 8:30 AM ET
- July 30 – Practice begins at 9:30 AM
- July 31 – Practice begins at 9:30 AM
- Aug. 2 – Practice begins at 9:30 AM
- Aug. 3 – Practice begins at 9:30 AM
- Aug. 5 – Practice begins at 11:30 AM
- Aug. 8 – Joint practice with New York Giants begins at 11:30 AM
- Aug. 9 – Joint practice with New York Giants begins at 11:30 AM
- Aug. 16 – Joint practice with Jacksonville Jaguars at 11:30 AM
- Aug. 17 – Joint practice with Jacksonville Jaguars at 11:30 AM
Top storylines for Detroit Lions training camp
Jahmyr Gibbs gets a chance to prove his worth
After becoming the 12th overall pick in the NFL draft, running back Jahmyr Gibbs will enter the season with sky-high expectations, simply due to where he was selected. Tailbacks usually aren’t drafted that high, but Gibbs is a rare exception.
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Expected to begin his career as a backup to David Montgomery, it shouldn’t surprise anyone if the first-round pick steals the starting role in due time. Perhaps an electric showing in training camp could even give him an early edge if he can hold up as a pass protector.
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Can the OL stay healthy?
There’s no question the Lions have a lot of talent in their skill position group, and if everything goes according to plan, Detroit should be able to pick up where they left off last season as the NFL’s fifth-ranked offense.
Yet, one of the biggest keys will be keeping the offensive line intact. There are already concerns about starting center Frank Ragnow’s health coming into camp, and he may be in line for a lot of rest days early on.
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Last year’s line came together well when they were 100% healthy. And now Halapoulivaati Vaitai returns after missing the entire 2022 season. The expectation is for the Lions’ offensive front to be much-improved, but Ragnow’s situation could linger.
Have the Lions found an elite linebacker with Jack Campbell?
Last year fans witnessed sixth-round rookie Malcolm ‘Rodrigo’ Rodriguez steal the show during Hard Knocks and earn a starting linebacker role. Part of this was due to Rodrigo’s excellent effort, but also partially due to the Lions not having a better option.
They set out to change that this offseason and wound up drafting Jack Campbell with the 18th pick in April’s NFL draft. At 6-foot-5, Campbell can make an impact in a lot of ways, helping shore up the run defense while also being a nuisance in pass coverage. Seeing how quickly he can adjust to the pros after starring at Iowa will be a key factor this fall.
How much better can this secondary be?
Knowing the Lions needed to take a leap over their 30th-ranked passing defense a season ago, we saw the front office make several investments in the secondary. By signing Cam Sutton, Emmanuel Moseley, and C.J. Gardner-Johnson, the Lions added a lot of experience to the defensive backfield. But they didn’t stop there.
The Lions also added former Alabama safety Brian Branch, who can also handle nickel duties if need be. Even if Branch doesn’t carve out a large role right away, this secondary almost feels brand new heading into 2023. We’ll see what Aaron Glenn can do with it.
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FAQ for Lions training camp
Where is Lions training camp 2023?
Detroit Lions training camp is located in Allen Park, Michigan. The Detroit Lions Training Facility has served as the host for Lions training camp since it was built in 2002, and that will continue in 2023.
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Can fans go to Lions training camp?
Yes, the Lions welcome all fans to their training camp practices. For more information regarding tickets to Lions training camp and what items are permitted and forbidden, check out the team’s helpful ticket guide here.
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Can you get autographs at Lions training camp?
Yes, the Lions will allow fans the opportunity to receive autographs from players after practices. At Lions camp, seating is first come, first serve.
How much does it cost to go to Lions training camp?
There is no fee for fans attending Lions training camp practices, but everyone above the age of two must have a ticket to attend. Here is more information on the procedure.
