Projecting the Lions depth chart: Defensive tackle

As the offseason winds down, we're going to project each position on the Detroit Lions depth chart and also take a look at some training camp battles. Next up is the defensive tackle position.

Starters: Ndamukong Suh, Nick Fairley | Top backups: C.J. Mosley, Caraun Reid

This is a pretty straightforward position. Ndamukong Suh is one of the NFL's best defensive tackles, and he's obviously the top starter at this position. The Lions' other starter is Nick Fairley, who is hoping to put together a career year after slimming down this offseason. They're backed up by C.J. Mosley, who was a solid No. 3 last year and is back in that role this year. They're also backed up by fifth-round pick Caraun Reid, who should make the team as the Lions' No. 4 defensive tackle.

Other players: Andre Fluellen, Jimmy Saddler-McQueen, Xavier Proctor, Gregory Hickman

The Lions have so much depth at defensive tackle that there are a few quality players on the bottom half of the depth chart, including Andre Fluellen, who is back in Detroit yet again. He's got the ability to be a solid No. 4 defensive tackle if things don't work out with Reid, and you could probably make the same case for Jimmy Saddler-McQueen and Xavier Proctor, who both spent last season on the practice squad.

Camp battle to watch: Caraun Reid vs. Andre Fluellen

This doesn't exactly seem like much of a battle simply because it wouldn't make a ton of sense for the Lions to keep Fluellen over Reid. Fluellen may be more ready to contribute right now, but Reid's upside is much greater, and I don't think he's that far off from being a rotational player at defensive tackle. It's a camp battle worth monitoring simply because Reid's spot isn't necessarily locked in, but it would be an upset if Fluellen sticks around over the rookie from Princeton.

Previously: Quarterback, running back, fullback, wide receiver, tight end, offensive tackle, offensive guard/center, defensive end