Lions Lose Final OTA Practice For Violating On-Field Contact Rules

The Detroit Lions have lost one day of organized offseason workouts after breaking rules relating to on-field contact during a practice the week of May 27.

Detroit Lions violated player work rules pertaining to on-field physical contact

“On Friday evening the organization was made aware by the NFL and NFLPA that Organized Team Activities (OTA) practices held the week of May 27 violated player work rules pertaining to on-field physical contact pursuant to the Collective Bargaining Agreement,” the team said in a release.

“We take very seriously the rules set forth within the NFL’s Offseason Program and have worked to conduct our practices accordingly. We will continue to be vigilant with our practices moving forward.”

Detroit had organized team activities planned Monday, the final session before training camp next month, but it has been forfeited.

STATEMENT FROM THE DETROIT LIONS

“On Friday evening the organization was made aware by the NFL and NFLPA that Organized Team Activities (OTA) practices held the week of May 27 violated player work rules pertaining to on-field physical contact pursuant to the Collective…

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) June 8, 2024

The Lions were among 10 NFL teams who held minicamp last week, followed by a final week of OTAs. Detroit had a three-day mandatory minicamp earlier this week.

Teams can only hold seven-on-seven and full-team periods during minicamp and organized team activities in Phase 3. All offseason workouts except minicamp are voluntary.

Training camp begins in about seven weeks.

Coach Dan Campbell commended his veteran players for their hard work on the last day of minicamp

Furthermore, Thursday was the final day of Detroit’s minicamp. Since veterans are typically excused from participating in the final OTA session, head coach Dan Campbell praised his elite players in a farewell message for maintaining great shape and a positive attitude.

When Cambell was asked what message he wants to convey to the vets before they leave for their break, he insinuated that his players should focus on the only thing that really matters: a Super Bowl.

“Remember — what are we playing for?” Campbell said. “Each individual, what do you want? What do you want out of this year? What do you want it to look like when we’re sitting here and it’s February? Where is your mind? So, think about that and let’s work backwards from there.”

Campbell wants the big kahuna as well.

“You know what I want. I want the whole enchilada.”

Last season, the Lions finished the regular season at 12-5, tying a franchise record for wins and ending in a three-way tie with the San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys for the best record in the NFC. Their .706 winning percentage was their best since 1991.

Detroit made it as far as the NFC Championship Game, where the team lost 34-31 to the Niners after leading 24-7 at halftime. It was also their first NFCC appearance since 1991.