With an extensive injury report heading into their game against Washington, the rookies of the Detroit Lions may see an increase in their snaps this week.
Here’s what to expect from the rookies in this week’s game:
Quarterback David Blough
Blough will serve as Jeff Driskel’s backup once again, but don’t expect much from the undrafted rookie. Barring any unforeseen injuries, his duties will be limited to the sidelines.
Running back Ty Johnson
Johnson has struggled as of late and was quickly passed on the depth chart by recently-signed Bo Scarborough. Johnson will still get some looks on third downs and provides some speed and ability in both the passing and running games, but he won’t get the nod as the starter.
Johnson could also play a role on special teams as a kick returner while Jamal Agnew sits out with an ankle injury.
Tight ends T.J. Hockenson and Isaac Nauta
T.J. Hockenson was just recently added to the injury report, listed as questionable with a shoulder injury. His injury may keep him out of this matchup, which means the team could be relying more on Logan Thomas, Jesse James, and Isaac Nauta.
Nauta, who was just promoted to the active roster, will serve two roles against Washington. Aside from being the fourth — or third — tight end on the depth chart, the rookie out of Georgia could get some first-team reps at fullback with Nick Bawden on injured reserve.
Offensive lineman Beau Benzschawel
Benzschawel has yet to see the field this season, but he could find himself active today due to starting center Frank Ragnow being ruled out with a concussion. The undrafted rookie is versatile and provides some depth at center and both guard spots.
Linebacker Jahlani Tavai
Tavai has been used all around the defense this season, lining up at all four linebacker positions on 58-percent of defensive snaps. While he hasn’t solidified a starting role, he has been a regular contributor for the Lions.
The rookie has two sacks and 36 tackles on the year and could have himself a big game due to Washington’s top two running backs dealing with injuries.
Cornerbacks Amani Oruwariye and Michael Jackson
Both rookies have had quiet seasons, with Oruwariye taking a total of nine defensive snaps and Jackson being a weekly inactive.
With starting cornerback Rashaan Melvin listed as questionable and backup nickel corner Jamal Agnew ruled out, the two rookies could be active for this matchup and provide substantial depth at the position.
Darius Slay and Justin Coleman will still be starters, and Mike Ford will likely be the next man up, but either/both Oruwariye or/and Jackson could be active today.
Safeties Will Harris and C.J. Moore
While Tracy Walker sits out of this game with a knee injury, expect Harris to once again fill that role. The rookie has struggled in recent weeks, having six missed tackles and allowing a 112.4 passer rating against him.
Moore has been dealing with an injury in practice all week but will be ready to go against Washington. He will see the field as a third safety in specific defensive sub-packages while also being a core special teamer on punt and kick returns.
