2026 Detroit Lions final roster bubble predictions on defense

Key Points:

• The Detroit Lions face critical roster decisions by the 6 p.m. ET Sunday deadline, with many tough calls expected on the defensive side of the ball.
• Defensive ends Aidan Hutchinson, DJ Wonnum, and Derrick Moore are assumed to make the roster, while Eric O’Neill, despite strong preseason play, remains a long shot due to limited roster spots.
• At defensive tackle, Alim McNeill and Tyleik Williams are locks, with Tyler Lacy and Skyler Gill-Howard also favored; Ben Stille is making a late push due to his versatility praised by coach Campbell.
• Linebacker spots are mostly settled with Jack Campbell, Derrick Barnes, and Malcolm Rodriguez assumed in, but uncertainty remains around Jimmy Rolder’s injury status and whether he will start on IR or make the 53-man roster.
• The cornerback and safety positions have fewer changes predicted, though injuries to Avonte Maddox and uncertainty about Christian Izien’s status leave room for players like Aamaris Brown to potentially earn roster spots.