As the Detroit Lions’ season comes to a close, there’s a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation around the team. With just two regular season games remaining before the playoffs begin, the Lions are focused on what lies ahead—and how they can maximize the potential of their roster, especially when it comes to their practice squad. Unlike many teams, the Lions have a unique approach to using their practice squad, seeing these players as crucial pieces in their puzzle, not just as backups or afterthoughts.

Throughout the regular season, each practice squad player is granted three elevations—opportunities to be moved to the active roster for game days. However, as the season progresses and teams approach the playoffs, things become a bit more complicated. With limited elevations available, coaches have to be strategic about how they use them, especially with injuries mounting and roster depth becoming more critical. It’s not uncommon for teams to be hesitant about using their final elevation for fear of running out of opportunities as the season nears its end.

For the Lions, the stakes are even higher. Players like Jamal Adams, Isaac Ukwu, and Jamarco Jones are each sitting on two elevations, and with the pressure mounting as the regular season winds down, every decision matters. These players are valuable assets to the team, but the Lions have been cautious, not wanting to waste any of their remaining opportunities too early.

The good news for the Lions is that as soon as the playoffs begin, all elevation restrictions reset. This gives the team a fresh slate to work with, allowing them to elevate more players without the same concerns they had during the regular season. This reset could prove to be a game-changer, especially when it comes to utilizing key players who might have been held back earlier in the year due to the limitations of the three-elevation rule.

One of the most important players the Lions plan to utilize in the playoffs is Kwon Alexander. His return to the practice squad was met with excitement, and the Lions are eager to have him back in the fold for their playoff push. Alexander’s presence could provide a significant boost to the team’s defense, and with the reset of elevation rules, the Lions have the flexibility to use him to his full potential.

If the Lions happen to lose to the Vikings on Sunday and make it to the Super Bowl, they will need to play four games to reach that coveted championship. The beauty of the NFL’s playoff structure is that there are no limitations on practice squad elevations during the postseason. That means players like Alexander could potentially suit up for all four playoff games, contributing to the team’s success in a way that wasn’t possible during the regular season.

For Lions fans who may have been worried about the impact of elevation rules, there’s no need to stress any longer. With the reset of elevations at the start of the playoffs and the unlimited opportunities available once the postseason kicks off, the Lions are in a strong position to maximize their roster and make a deep run in the playoffs. They’ve been strategic all season, and now, as the postseason approaches, they’ll have the freedom to make the most of their roster and the players who’ve been on the practice squad.

In the end, this strategic depth management could be one of the factors that sets the Lions apart as they chase their playoff dreams. With the postseason offering fresh opportunities for key players to shine, the Lions are poised to give it their all and make a serious push for the championship. So, while regular-season limitations may have slowed them down at times, the Lions are now fully equipped to make a deep run—elevating their game and their roster to the next level. The road to the Super Bowl is still within reach, and Detroit is ready for the challenge.