The Detroit Lions’ safety room may be the most unsettled on the entire team heading into 2026 training camp. There are major health concerns throughout the safety depth chart that will impact the fate of the secondary, and maybe the entire defense.
The following are players projected to be competing for a backup role at safety. For the complete safety preview, visit Lions 2026 Training Camp Medical Preview: Safety.
(Age at start of season in parentheses.) Click on player name for full medical report if available.
Christian Izien (26)
Medical concern level: 2/10
Izien has been available in most games in his previous three seasons, but has had numerous soft tissue injuries including oblique, quad, pec, and groin. His young age helps him.
OUTLOOK: Izien has positional versatility at CB and S which is a big deal given the Lions secondary turmoil. The versatility along with his experience and youth will have him make the roster.
Avonte Maddox (30)
Medical concern level: 5/10
Maddox filled in nicely last season with the Lions when he appeared in 14 games. He had a hamstring and illness last season causing him to miss three games. There are reliability concerns as he has a long injury history including pec surgery, toe surgery, knee, and neck.
OUTLOOK: Maddox very likely makes the team given his proven experience with the Lions. His age and health concerns could be a factor though.
Dan Jackson (25)
Medical concern level: 4/10
Missing all of last season with an unspecified leg injury is certainly a concern, but it’s very reassuring that he has been healthy and available throughout this offseason. It’s possible that the injury wasn’t too significant, and he was shelved for roster management.
OUTLOOK: This former 7th-rounder carries an inexpensive contract as he enters the second year of his 4-year deal. The money factor, along with his youth, are why it would be best-case scenario for the Lions if he can emerge as a surprise starter.
Loren Strickland (26)
Medical concern level: 0/10
In his past two seasons with the Lions, he has been available except for a minor thumb injury in 2024. He appeared in nine games total.
OUTLOOK: Strickland’s experience with the Lions will help him, but he’ll need to step up his play as he enters his third year in the NFL.
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This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Detroit Lions Training Camp Medical & Injury Preview: Safety Depth
