The Detroit Lions lean on a growing USFL pipeline, reaping nine alumni in the latest roster snapshot — the most of any NFL club. Three Panthers alums anchor that group on the practice and depth charts: Jake Bates, D.J. Miller Jr., and Gunnar Oakes, with Bates already cemented as the starting kicker after a stellar 2024.

Bates’ 26 of 29 field goals, including multiple 50+ yarders, plus a record-setting 64 extra points, underpinned a 15-2 Lions campaign and a single-season points mark. That level of reliability makes Bates the clearest long-term kicker bet for Detroit in 2025, strengthening the team’s special-teams floor.

Miller Jr. arrived in August and faces an uphill roster battle, yet his 10-game UFL tape included two interceptions and nine pass breakups, highlighting playmaking versatility that could translate to a rotational role or a development path at corner.

Oakes, a seventh-round pick in 2023, brings replacement-te depth at tight end, especially if Sam LaPorta’s minor injury lingers. Even with competition around the position, the UFL experience gives him a tangible path to stick as depth behind Detroit’s core.

Beyond those three Panthers, the Lions roster lists other ex-USFLers such as Gunner Britton, Deon Jackson, Jacob Saylors, Steven Stilianos, Keaton Sutherland, and Nick Whiteside II, forming a broader imprint of Spring Football on Detroit. The Panthers’ offshoots aren’t limited to Detroit’s lines; other Panthers alumni across the NFL (Browns, Patriots, 49ers, Chargers) reflect the Panthers’ national footprint in the league. If Michigan Panthers depart Detroit, their impact persists at Ford Field through Bates’ security, Miller’s upside, and Stilianos’ All-UFL pedigree, offering fantasy managers and bettors a nuanced angle on 2025 roster-building.

Cam Ward’s preseason debut for Tennessee was a bright spot in a 29-7 loss to Tampa Bay. The rookie completed 5 of 8 passes for 67 yards, showing poise and command as the Titans’ early offense driver before turning the reins over to the backups. Tennessee’s depth players flashed in spurts, and the game underscored how clean execution and playmaking could docile a rough start with two joint practices looming against Atlanta.

Stock up centers on Ward and several rookies who flashed during limited reps: Femi Oladejo, Chimere Dike, Gunnar Helm, Kalel Mullings, and Julius Chestnut contributed offensively, while Timmy Horne stepped in for Sweat and asserted himself as a potential rotational piece. On the downside, Brandon Allen and Tim Boyle struggled, Otis Reese IV faded from the competition, and Tyjae Spears faced an ankle issue that could complicate early roster decisions. Gabe Jeudy-Lally showed coverage challenges, keeping depth charts in focus. Tennessee will look to clean up gaps before Week 2 and use the Falcons’ joint-practice week to sharpen plans for the final dress rehearsal.

The Titans’ Week 2 clash with Atlanta could set the tone for several roster calls, especially at running back and on defense, with a few youngsters pressing for meaningful snaps. Fantasy managers should monitor Ward’s continued command and the rookies’ progression, as any sustained ball security, route-running, or explosiveness could shift late-season upside and depth-chart leverage for Tennessee.