The Detroit Lions are turning over a new leaf on defense with Kelvin Sheppard taking over the defensive coordinator role from departed Aaron Glenn and a new cast of contributors ready to take on new challenges.

Ford Field scheduling conflicts with Chris Brown's concert series prevent the team from hosting the popular open practice that drew 18,000 fans in 2022.

▶ Saturday marked the first practice of the year with fans in attendance, and per usual, there was a noticeable change in the energy. Supporters in attendance gave Lions owner Sheila Hamp a standing ovation when she arrived, and later started a chant for linebacker Alex Anzalone, who returned to practice amid a contract dispute with the team.

The Lions are counting on Aidan Hutchinson immediately returning to form following last year’s season-ending leg fracture. So far, so good, according to quarterback Jared Goff.

The Lions were missing Joseph on Saturday, but got Anzalone, Williams, Muhammad, Rakestraw and Lopez back in practice.

Australia coach Joe Schmidt is confident the Wallabies are on an upward trajectory despite seeing his side slip to a late series-deciding loss to the British & Irish Lions in Melbourne on Saturday.

Debate continues over the British and Irish Lions’ 29-26 win against Australia in the second test. The controversy centers on a last-minute try and a non-penalty decision.

TeSlaa and Lovett had some standout moments during the first practice in front of fans on Saturday in Allen Park.