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There is a lot of expectation for Detroit Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill heading into the 2023 season. There is also less of Alim McNeill as training camp begins.
McNeill told reporters after the second practice of training camp that he dropped 22 pounds over the offseason. The third-year DT is now weighing 305 pounds after being 327 when the 2022 campaign ended.
The change in body composition was noticeable during June’s minicamp, and McNeill has continued the transformation into a leaner fighting machine.
“I feel better,” McNeill said. “Lighter, faster. And I still have the same strength.”
That strength will be important to maintain even though McNeill is moving to more of a full-time role in the 3-technique. That’s a more attacking-based role than the nose tackle spot he occupied for much of his first two seasons in Detroit. His dominating work in the win over the New York Giants last year is more of the expectation for McNeill in 2023.
#Lions DL Alim McNeill said he dropped 22 pounds since the last time he was "at a podium."
Used to weigh 327 pounds, now he's at 305 — "and I still have the same strength," he said. pic.twitter.com/s2pHc7C3Dh
— Nolan Bianchi (@nolanbianchi) July 24, 2023
A changed diet and more dedication to what he puts into his body resulted in the impressive weight loss.
For a little visual comparison, here is McNeill prior to Monday’s practice and a picture from two summers ago:
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