League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Injuries

Lions keep key players out vs. Washington in preseason matchup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 3:39 PM

Last updated Aug 22, 2026

Lions keep key players out vs. Washington in preseason matchup

Summary

The Detroit Lions are resting several star players, including Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Amon-Ra St. Brown, during their preseason game against the Washington Commanders. This decision aligns with head coach Dan Campbell's strategy of protecting established starters. Josh Dobbs is set to start at quarterback, with rookie Luke Altmyer expected to get significant playing time. Ennis Rakestraw Jr. is dressed for warmups after recovering from an ankle injury, though his official status remains uncertain. Other veteran players, like D.J. Reed, are also in uniform but may not play.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Goff, Gibbs, and St. Brown are among players resting.
•Josh Dobbs will start at quarterback for Detroit.
•Ennis Rakestraw Jr. is dressed after an ankle injury.
•D.J. Reed's participation is uncertain despite being in uniform.
•Dan Campbell is prioritizing player health in preseason strategy.

Latest Updates

3:39 PMYahoo Sports — Report Reveals Which Lions’ Stars Won’t Play vs. Washington

What they're saying

"
Detroit is protecting most of its stars against Washington, but Ennis Rakestraw provided an encouraging sign before kickoff. The cornerback was in uniform just two days after leaving practice with an ankle injury.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Detroit Lions Washington Commanders NFL Football