Detroit Lions rookie offensive lineman and No. 7 overall pick Penei Sewell laments the fact he will not be participating in minicamp after testing positive for COVID-19.

Sewell tweeted he tested positive this past weekend. The former Oregon star expressed regret at not being able to attend minicamp:

“Found out this past weekend I tested positive for COVID,” Sewell said. “Really wish I was heading to my new home today and able to be at mini-camp with my new teammates and coaches. Look forward to getting out to the D as soon as I’m cleared!”

This is a tough setback, both for Sewell and the Lions.

Minicamp is hardly as important as training camp. It's more of a precursor to training camp, in fact. Still, it can be a vital part of introducing rookies to offensive and defensive schemes and help players and coaches get on the same page.

Sewell likely could have benefited from an initial introduction. Still, the Lions likely feel they are getting a future All-Pro at the tackle spot.

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Detroit seemed a strong candidate to take one of the top wide receivers in the 2021 draft class after Kenny Golladay and Marvin Jones departed in free agency. However, new head coach Dan Campbell hinted the team would prioritize winning the trenches during his introductory press conference.

Additionally, the Lions had incentive to add protection after trading for Jared Goff. Alas, Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes jumped at the opportunity to take Sewell at No. 7.

The positive COVID-19 test is a bump in the road, but Sewell will undoubtedly be an important figure in defining the Lions' offensive success in 2021.