The newest Lions arrived for this weekend’s rookie minicamp. But they won’t be seeing coach Dan Campbell.
The Detroit Free Press reported that Campbell will miss the three days of practice because of “personal reasons.” No other details were provided. However, the team expects Campbell to be back later this month when OTAs head into Phase 3. During this period, all teams can go through 11-on-11 non-contract practices.
The rookie minicamp, which starts Friday, allows all the first-year players to practice together without the veterans. Plus, the Lions brought in some players who didn’t sign as undrafted free agents. They’ll try out for an invitation to stick with the team as they head into training camp.
Two of the tryout players are quarterbacks — Theo Day of Northern Iowa and Cade Peterson of Grand Valley State. Both quarterbacks grew up in Michigan and cheered for the Lions.
The next phase of OTAs begins May 21. Mandatory minicamp is June 4 to 6.