Detroit's defense is anchored by a back end that is going to make life difficult for opposing offenses. Brian Branch had a solid camp and Kerby Joseph is working his way back from knee irritation. Both should be in the conversation for All-Pro and Pro Bowl-caliber seasons.

The Lions and the rest of the NFL must have their initial 53-man roster set by 4 p.m. Tuesday. There are not as many roster bubble battles as we’ve seen in previous years. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t tough decisions to make, and some roster maneuvering to accomplish.

With the Detroit Lions’ final preseason game on the books, the front office and coaching staff are now tasked with reducing their 91-man roster down to 53 players in preparation for the regular season. Final decisions are due by 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, but we are expected to see some transactions roll in over the next few days.