During a joint practice between the Detroit Lions and the New York Giants, Lions defensive back and first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft Terrion Arnold left early.
Detroit Lions DB Terrion Arnold left after a massive hit
A huge hit from New York Giants tackle Andrew Thomas seemed to be the root cause of Arnold’s early departure from the joint practice.
As a defensive back, Arnold typically does not have to take on guys the size of Thomas. Thomas has more than 100 pounds on Arnold as a 6-foot-5, 315-pound tackle. Arnold came into the league as a 6-foot, 196-pound defensive back.
Regardless of the massive size difference and the early departure from the joint practice, Arnold managed to stay on his feet. Thomas was not wearing a guardian cap at the time of the hit, even though they were supposed to be required for training camp.
The big hit was a microcosm of the joint practice between the Detroit Lions and the New York Giants
The huge hit that affected Terrion Arnold in the joint practice involving the Giants and the Lions was a microcosm of the high-tension training camp session.
Several fights broke out between the teams Monday. Starting Giants quarterback Daniel Jones was deeply involved in one fight, and another fight got so bad that Giants general manager Joe Schoen had to get involved.
After training camp, Jones explained to the media that he was trying to stand up for his teammates when one of the fights between the Lions and the Giants broke out.
DB Terrion Arnold can immediately contribute to the Detroit Lions if healthy
A product of Nick Saban’s Alabama Crimson Tide, Arnold has a chance to immediately contribute for the Lions if he is able to remain healthy.
Arnold racked up five interceptions, a forced fumble and 63 tackles in his final season with Alabama, which led to him being taken by the Lions in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Arnold explained in an article from Forbes that playing for Alabama uniquely prepared him to succeed in the NFL.
“It prepared me in ways that other schools probably couldn’t have,” Arnold said. “For instance, Alabama taught me how to take the details, the little things, very, very seriously. Something as simple as making sure you have your shirt tucked in, not having earrings on while playing, or not being able to listen to music at practice and just having to work and grind. All of that discipline was instilled in me during my time at Alabama.”
If Arnold is relegated to the sideline for a short period of time before the season begins, it could drastically affect his development and his ability to contribute on the field. The weeks leading up to the regular season are vital for every player, but they are especially crucial for rookies heading into their first NFL season.