In preparation for their Christmas Day game against the Minnesota Vikings, the Detroit Lions have elevated two players from their practice squad. Just like last week, the Lions are temporarily bringing up tight end Giovanni Ricci and offensive lineman Kingsley Eguakun.
Eguakun got his first career start on Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers, serving as the team’s center. He stepped in admirably for veteran center Graham Glasgow, who was dealing with a knee injury. Even coach Dan Campbell came away very impressed with his performance.
“I thought it was really encouraging, I really did,” Campbell said. “For his first game to go out there, I thought he competed, I thought he fought, I thought he played fast. It was very encouraging.”
Eguakun was signed by the Lions after going undrafted in 2024 and has been on and off the practice squad since.
With Glasgow off the injury report, Eguakun may return to a reserve role this week, however Justin Rogers of Detroit Football Network suggests that it would not be surprising if Eguakun gets the start at center anyways.
With Trystan Colon and Christian Mahogany questionable to be active, Detroit will have ample depth regardless of what they decide between Glasgow and Eguakun.
Ricci has served as a rotational tight end for the Lions for the past two weeks following the loss of both Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright to injuries that landed them on injured reserve. He logged 12 offensive snaps against the Rams and 14 against the Steelers.
This is the third and final practice squad elevation for both players. That means if the Lions want either to play in the regular season finale against the Chicago Bears next week, they will need to sign to the 53-man roster.
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