10 Lions who can improve their stock vs. Bengals in preseason

Key Points:

• The Detroit Lions will face the Cincinnati Bengals in their first 2026 preseason game on Thursday night, with many starters expected to rest while younger players compete for roster spots.
• Quarterback Luke Altmyer is positioned to challenge for the backup QB role following Teddy Bridgewater's retirement, likely receiving most reps in the game to prove his value.
• Several players, including running back Jacob Saylors, wide receiver Tay Martin, and tight end Jackson Meeks, have key opportunities to improve their standing on the roster during this preseason matchup.
• Offensive lineman Seth McLaughlin is set to start at center due to injuries, providing him a chance to compete for a starting position in the regular season.
• Defensive players like EDGE Ahmed Hassanein, linebacker Erick Hunter, and cornerbacks Ennis Rakestraw and Roger McCreary must perform well to secure or maintain their spots amid ongoing competition and depth chart shifts.