Detroit hosted a notable rookie moment at Ford Field as Isaac TeSlaa led a productive day for the Lions in the third preseason game, snagging four catches on five targets and crossing for an 18-yard score that peeked the crowd’s excitement. TeSlaa, with prior Michigan roots, turned his return to Ford Field into a coming-out party as a Lion, while undrafted Ian Kennelly also got his first NFL taste, flashing potential depth at safety in the loss to the Dolphins.

Meanwhile, Cornell Armstrong and the Dolphins’ defense provided a tough test for Detroit’s young pass-catchers. Coach Dan Campbell emphasized TeSlaa’s rapid improvement and growing trust, underscoring how this depth work could shape late-summer decisions. The day highlighted a Michigan pipeline producing two local players competing for meaningful roles, and it reinforced the Lions’ plan to evaluate every edge rookies can offer as the roster takes shape ahead of Week 1.