Detroit Lions Open Preseason Thursday Night: What To Know

DETROIT — The Detroit Lions open their preseason Thursday night in New Jersey against the New York Giants.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. The game will air on Fox and 97.1 F.M.

Though Lions Head Coach Dan Campbell wasn't specific on who will play in the game, don't expect to see any starting units. Campbell has typically erred on the side of caution when it comes to preseason games.

Rather, it's likely Campbell will play players who are fighting for a roster spot or need development.

Some of the players expected to play in the game include quarterback Hendon Hooker, cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr., wide receiver Daurice Fountain, cornerback Morice Norris and running back Jermar Jefferson.

It's unclear if Lions rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold, whom the Lions picked in the first round of this year's NFL Draft, will play in the game. Last year, then rookie linebacker Jack Campbell did play in the preseason game and saw a good number of snaps.

The Lions will then play the defending Super Bowl champions the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 17 at 4 p.m. They then wrap up their preseason in Detroit against the Pittsburgh Steelers a week later at 1 p.m.