For the first time in several weeks, Lions defensive end Julian Okwara was a full participant in practice. No. 99 returned to action after missing the entire preseason with a leg injury.
Okwara’s appearance reinforces head coach Dan Campbell’s statement last week that Okwara could be ready for the Week 1 matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles on September 11th.
Alas, the Lions defense remains stocked with some injuries. Four defensive players sat out the portion of practice open to reporters:
- DE Austin Bryant
- S Ifeatu Melifownu
- CB Amani Oruwariye
- DT Levi Onwuzurike
Melifonwu and Onwuzurike have each missed considerable time with injuries; their absence is not surprising. Bryant and Oruwariye have been healthy and could just be getting some time off before a long break. The Lions are off from practice through the holiday weekend.
Tight end T.J. Hockenson also did not take part in individual drills. Hockenson does not have any known injury limitations.
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