Lions, Falcons Focus on Roster Battles in Preseason

The Detroit Lions are set to play the Atlanta Falcons in their second preseason game, with attention focused on the Lions' backup quarterback competition between Hendon Hooker, who will start, and Kyle Allen, after both struggled in their previous outing against the Chargers. The Lions will also evaluate rookies Tyleik Williams and Tate Ratledge, as well as emerging players like Isaac TeSlaa and Jacob Saylors, as they compete for roster spots. For the Falcons, starting quarterbacks Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix Jr. will sit out, allowing Easton Stick and Emory Jones to showcase their abilities. Rookie pass rusher James Pearce Jr. has impressed in camp with his intensity, drawing praise despite some on-field skirmishes. Falcons head coach Raheem Morris is optimistic about his revamped roster following offseason moves and aims to end the team's playoff drought. Both teams will use this game primarily to assess depth and roster candidates rather than focus on the final score.