Tag: carlton davis

Lions vs 49ers: Final injury report medical analysis

Lions vs 49ers: Final injury report medical analysis for Week 17

The Lions may be facing off Monday night against the only team with worse injury woes than them this year.

The bad injury situation exacerbated for the 49ers during the week with multiple downgrades – Colton McKivitz, Charvarius Ward, and Ji’Ayir Brown. Two of those are starting secondary players which would hamper the 49er pass defense. Meanwhile, the Lions got an upgrade with Terrion Arnold.

The Lions active roster is in pretty good shape. Scroll down for the lengthy IR-list update though.

At offensive line, the Lions starters will be intact with the return of Graham Glasgow. Conversely, the 49ers offensive line which was already hurting, is going to be even worse off this week:

  • Starting RT, Colton McKivitz, is trending out with 2 NP to finish the week.
  • Their 3rd starting LT of the season, Spencer Burford, is out.
  • Starting LG, Aaron Banks, is out.

Here is the list of other woes for the 49ers this season:

  • 1st-round rookie WR Ricky Pearsall took a gunshot wound to the chest and missed six games.
  • Christian McCaffrey RB missed much of the year with bilateral Achilles tendonitis and is now on IR with a PCL. He only appeared in four games. Backup RB Jordan Mason is also on IR with a high ankle sprain.
  • Trent Williams LT played 10 games before an ankle ended his season. His backup Jaylon Moore is also on IR with a quad.
  • Brandon Aiyuk WR tore his ACL in week seven.
  • Brock Purdy QB missed one game with a shoulder.
  • Dre Greenlaw LB tore his Achilles in the Super Bowl. He returned for two games but is now shut down for the year.
  • Fred Warner LB has been playing through a fractured ankle bone since week four.

(Abbreviations: UL=unlisted, NP=no practice, LP=limited practice, FP=full practice)

DETROIT LIONS

Out – Kalif Raymond WR, foot (FP FP FP)

Raymond started his 21-day practice window this week which was immediately after his 4-week IR stint. That’s a sign he could be ready very soon, but it won’t be this week. Hope to see Raymond in the final regular season game vs the Vikings or the first game of the playoffs.

 

Out – David Montgomery RB, knee (NP NP NP)

Montgomery has an MCL sprain and possibly more. The hope is he will be back by the 2nd round of the playoffs which is in 3 weeks. He is not on IR thus can practice and play at any time.

Questionable – Jalen Reeves-Maybin LB, neck (FP FP FP)

Currently, at day 9 of his 21 day practice window, I don’t expect him to be available vs the 49ers which will be on day 11. Expect him either the final regular season game vs the Vikings (day 17) or the playoffs.

In – Terrion Arnold CB, illness (NP LP FP)

Arnold upgraded his status over the course of the week which is good news that the illness was benign.

In – Graham Glasgow OG, knee (FP FP FP)

The Lions must feel good about Glasgow’s health as they could have chosen to start Christian Mahogany for a 2nd straight game after his strong performance.

IR LIST STATUS UPDATE

Early playoff return is likely

  • Alex Anzalone, left forearm fracture 11/17 – I thought his 21-day practice might have opened last week, but now another week has passed without his window opening. Hopefully this is not a sign of a setback. The forearm was expected to take 6-8 weeks. Six weeks is the 49ers game which won’t happen. Seven weeks is the final regular season game vs the Vikings which seems unlikely at this point. The playoffs start at the 8-week mark which is only 14 days away.

Mid-Late playoff return is possible

  • Ennis Rakestraw, hamstring 11/23 – Was eligible to return last week vs the Bears, but his 21-day practice window is still not open. This implies he is at least three weeks away.
  • Carlton Davis, jaw fracture 12/15 – Initial estimated recovery of six weeks would put him at the NFC championship game, but Dan Campbell stated last week: “It doesn’t look optimistic to get him back”. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • Aidan Hutchinson, left tib/fib fracture 10/13 – Expecting very limited action in the Super Bowl. Currently at 11 weeks post-injury, the bone is likely fully healed. His return will depend on how quickly he can regain his leg strength, burst, and flexibility. In 3rd year of 4-year rookie contract with 5th-year option. Expect an extension this coming offseason.

Not expected to return

  • Derrick Barnes, right MCL/PCL surgery – Unlikely to be back. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • John Cominsky, MCL surgery – On December 18, Dan Campbell stated he was unlikely to return this season. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • Alim McNeill, right ACL – Expect his return around October-November of 2025. Signed an extension this past offseason through the 2028 season.
  • Khalil Dorsey, right ankle/leg fracture – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Malcolm Rodriguez, right ACL – Expect his return around October 2025. Next season will be the final year of his rookie contract.
  • Marcus Davenport, left elbow – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Kyle Peko, left pec rupture – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Mekhi Wingo, unspecified right knee – In 1st year of four-year rookie contract.

IR return count (6 of 10 used)

  • Lions have used 6 of 10 returns with Kalif Raymond, Brodric Martin, Emmanuel Moseley, Jalen Reeves-Maybin, and Ifeatu Melifonwu twice.
  • At this point, the last 4 will likely go to Anzalone, Rakestraw, Davis, and Hutchinson.
  • The Lions can use all 4 remaining returns in the playoffs if they choose.
  • During the regular season, the Lions can only use a max of 8 returns but that’s not an issue as Davis and Hutchinson won’t be ready until late playoffs.

 

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

Out – Spencer Burford LT, calf (NP NP NP)

Burford was hurt while starting at LT last week for Jaylon Moore who was filling in for Trent Williams. With all three of them out, the 49ers will turn to their 4th starting LT of the season.

Out – Aaron Banks LG, knee (NP NP NP)

On video, this starting LG sprained his MCL last week and is reportedly done for the season.

Out – Dre Greenlaw LB, calf (NP NP NP)

Kyle Shanahan stated on Thursday that Greenlaw will be out for the year.

Out – Robert Beal DE, ankle (NP NP NP)

Beal is a part-time defender who also missed last week.

Questionable – Colton McKivitz RT, knee (LP, NP NP)

A downgrade over the week may cost the 49ers their starting RT who has played every game this year. With 2 NP’s to end the week, that suggests he will be out.

Questionable – Ji’Ayir Brown S, ankle (LP LP NP)

Brown is a starting safety who has played every game this year.

Questionable – Charvarius Ward CB, personal (UL UL NP)

Ward is a quality starting CB, so he would be a big loss.

Questionable – Tatum Bethune LB, knee (FP FP)

Bethune, a 7th-round rookie, has missed the last five games with an MCL. He started his 21-day practice window just this week.

In – Leonard Floyd DE, shoulder (LP LP FP)

Floyd has been productive pass-rusher this year with 8.5 sacks.

In – Isaac Guerendo RB, foot/hamstring (LP LP FP)

With the injuries to McCaffrey and Mason, Guerendo has been called on in recent weeks. He’s 2nd on the team in rushing yards with 381 behind Mason.

In – Kyle Juszczyk FB, illness (UL NP FP)

In – FP all week

Nick Bosa DE

Jordan Elliott DT

Talanoa Hufanga S

Dee Winters LB

 

Three Lions make PFF’s list of top 50 free agents for 2025

Three Lions players make PFF’s early list of top 50 free agents for 2025

The 2024 Detroit Lions have their sights set on clinching the No. 1 seed in the NFC (a win over the 49ers and a Vikings loss against the Packers would secure the top seed this week) as well as a trip to New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX. But behind the scenes, the Lions are also keeping an eye on what their team will look like in 2025.

It won’t be long before free agency hits the NFL and the Lions have some decisions to make. They have some key contributors set to hit the free market in March. Case in point: Pro Football Focus recently released their top 50 free agents for the 2025 offseason. Three Lions players appear on the list.

The highest-ranked Lion on this list is cornerback Carlton Davis III, at No. 21. Detroit acquired Davis via trade from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last offseason. Davis is in the final year of the three-year, $44.5 million contract he signed with the Buccaneers in 2022.

Davis immediately upgraded the Lions’ secondary unit, a group that was the biggest Achilles heel in 2023. Davis has 56 tackles and two interceptions this season.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers traded Davis in the offseason, and he has provided immediate stability to a young, oft-injured Detroit secondary that has seen a strong defensive turnaround even after the loss of Defensive Player of the Year front-runner Aidan Hutchinson.

Next on the list, at No. 27, is guard Kevin Zeitler. The Lions signed Zeitler to a one-year deal in free agency after he spent three seasons in Baltimore. Zeitler has been one of the best guards across the entire NFL this season and turned out to be a major free-agency win for the Lions. Zeitler does turn 35 in March, so it will be interesting to see if the Lions decide to bring him back for 2025.

After spending the past three years in Baltimore, Zeitler joined Detroit, which has been a near-seamless fit. Zeitler’s 80.2 PFF overall grade is his best since 2016, and his 78.6 PFF run-blocking grade is his highest in 10 years. The 34-year-old could be a cheap yet effective guard option on the open market.

Finally, at No. 40, is defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike. Onwuzurike has been steady up front for the Lions, playing in 14 games, recording 24 tackles, one tackle for a loss and 1.5 sacks this season. In three seasons played (a back injury caused him to miss the entire 2022 season), Onwuzurike has played in 40 games, with eight starts, recorded 64 tackles, four tackles for a loss and 3.5 sacks.

Onwuzurike has flashed whenever he’s been healthy over his first four seasons in the league after getting drafted one round ahead of recently extended interior defender Alim McNeill in 2021. The former second-round pick out of Washington is the penetrating three-technique interior pass-rusher that every team covets, with his 11.2% pass-rush win rate in 2024 ranking as a top-25 mark at the position.

Lions vs 49ers: Initial injury report medical analysis and IR-list update

Lions vs 49ers: Initial injury report medical analysis and I.R. list update for Week 17

For the Detroit Lions, there were no major surprises on the initial report which is welcome news. This week, the team is expecting to be gaining health with the return of Graham Glasgow as well as the imminent returns of Kalif Raymond and Jalen Reeves-Maybin.

The only team more injury-ridden than the Lions this year might be the San Francisco 49ers, who were the NFC-favorites prior to the start of the season. A brutal run of injuries has led them to a 6-9 record:

  • 1st-round rookie WR Ricky Pearsall took a gunshot wound to the chest and missed six games.
  • Christian McCaffrey RB missed much of the year with bilateral Achilles tendonitis and is now on IR with a PCL. He only appeared in four games.
  • Trent Williams LT played 10 games before an ankle ended his season.
  • Brandon Aiyuk WR tore his ACL in week seven.
  • Brock Purdy QB missed one game with a shoulder.
  • Dre Greenlaw LB tore his Achilles in the Super Bowl. He returned for two games but is now shut down for the year.
  • Fred Warner LB has been playing through a fractured ankle bone since week four.
  • Jordan Mason RB is on IR with a high ankle sprain.

DETROIT LIONS

Kalif Raymond WR, foot (FP)

Raymond started his 21-day practice window today which is immediately after his 4-week IR stint. This means he could be ready to play right now from a medical standpoint.

However, Dan Campbell today stated “I don’t feel as confident with [Raymond] as [Reeves-Maybin]… but it’s good to get him back running around.” Thus, hope to see Raymond in the final regular season game vs the Vikings or the first game of the playoffs.

Terrion Arnold CB, illness (NP)

Arnold played 98% of snaps last game vs the Bears with no issue. Presumably, an illness started after the game. Cold and flu season has hit America so that could be the cause.

NFL players are often able to recover from routine illnesses within 2-3 days so hope for an upgrade in his status over the course of the week.

Graham Glasgow OG, knee (FP)

Glasgow missed last game with the knee injury but is on track to return to the starting lineup vs the 49ers. The starting offensive line will again be intact.

Jalen Reeves-Maybin LB, neck (FP)

JRM was hurt November 3, placed on IR, and started his 21-day practice window on December 19. The injury was initially reported by the Lions as a shoulder but ended up being a neck.

Currently, at only day 7 of his 21 day practice window, don’t expect him to be available vs the 49ers which will be on day 11. Expect him either the final regular season game vs the Vikings (day 17) or the playoffs.

David Montgomery RB, knee (NP)

Montgomery’s knee injury is an MCL sprain and possibly more. The hope is he will be back by the 2nd round of the playoffs which is in 3.5 weeks. He is not on IR thus can practice and play at any time.

 

IR LIST STATUS UPDATE

Returning soon

  • Alex Anzalone, left forearm fracture 11/17 – The forearm was expected to take 6-8 weeks, and the 49ers game is the 6-week mark. The playoffs start at the 8-week mark which is only 16 days away. Anzalone’s 21-day practice window has yet to open which raises eyebrows. Forearm fractures heal reliably so a setback is unlikely but not impossible.

Early playoffs at best

  • Ennis Rakestraw, hamstring 11/23 – Was eligible to return last week vs the Bears, but his 21-day practice window is still not open. This implies he is at least three weeks away.

Late playoffs is possible

  • Carlton Davis, jaw fracture 12/15 – Initial estimated recovery of six weeks would put him at the NFC championship game, but Dan Campbell stated last week: “It doesn’t look optimistic to get him back”. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • Aidan Hutchinson, left tib/fib fracture 10/13 – Expecting very limited action in the Super Bowl. Currently at 10.5 weeks post-injury, the bone is likely healed at this point. Hutchinson has significant expected atrophy in his legs so it all depends on how quickly rehab goes. In 3rd year of 4-year rookie contract with 5th-year option. Expect an extension this coming offseason.

Not expected to return

  • Derrick Barnes, right MCL/PCL surgery – Unlikely to be back. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • John Cominsky, MCL surgery – On December 18, Dan Campbell stated he was unlikely to return this season. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • Alim McNeill, right ACL – Expect his return around October-November of 2025. Signed an extension this past offseason through the 2028 season.
  • Khalil Dorsey, right ankle/leg fracture – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Malcolm Rodriguez, right ACL – Expect his return around October 2025. Next season will be the final year of his rookie contract.
  • Marcus Davenport, left elbow – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Kyle Peko, left pec – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Mekhi Wingo, right knee – In 1st year of four-year rookie contract.

IR return count (6 of 10 used)

  • Lions have used 6 of 10 returns with Kalif Raymond, Brodric Martin, Emmanuel Moseley, Jalen Reeves-Maybin, and Ifeatu Melifonwu twice.
  • At this point, the last 4 will likely go to Anzalone, Rakestraw, Davis, and Hutchinson.
  • The Lions can use all 4 remaining returns in the playoffs if they choose.
  • During the regular season, the Lions can only use a max of 8 returns but that’s not an issue as Davis and Hutchinson won’t be ready until late playoffs.

 

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

Spencer Burford LT, calf (NP)

Burford was hurt while filling in at LT last week for Trent Williams.

Dre Greenlaw LB, calf (NP)

Kyle Shanahan stated today that Greenlaw will be out for the year.

Aaron Banks OG, knee (NP)

On video, Banks appeared to sprain his MCL last week. That makes it unlikely he’ll play.

Robert Beal DE, ankle (NP)

Beal is a part-time defender who also missed last week.

Ji’Ayir Brown S, ankle (LP)

Brown is a starting safety who has played every game this year.

Isaac Guerendo RB, foot/hamstring (LP)

With the injuries to McCaffrey and Jordan Mason, Guerendo has been called on in recent weeks. He’s 2nd on the team in rushing yards with 381 behind Mason.

Here is the full 49ers report:

Projected return dates this season for Lions injured players

Projected return dates this season for Lions injured players, including David Montgomery, Aidan Hutchinson and Alex Anzalone

After an injury-free game vs the Bears, Lions fans can focus on watching for players that are going to return to action. While there are three players who could make their return this week vs the 49ers – Graham Glasgow, Kalif Raymond, and Jalen Reeves-Maybin, I expect only Glasgow to return.

Here are the players that could return soon with my projected return date.

Graham Glasgow – Projected return this week vs 49ers

Glasgow missed last game with a knee issue, and also had an unspecified knee injury in week two for which he did not miss a game. It’s possible there is a chronic or recurrent injury going on.

After two NP’s (no practice) to start last week, he had a LP (limited practice) on Friday which is reassuring that the injury is short-term. Dan Campbell this Monday stated: “I see Graham coming back, I think he’s going to be ready to roll, he’s going to slip right back into left guard and start for us.”

With Christian Mahogany playing well at LG and the rest of the offensive line healthy, the Lions could decide to slow-play Glasgow’s return. But it sounds like Glasgow will be thrown back into action immediately.

Kalif Raymond – Projected return 1 to 3 weeks

Raymond injured his left foot on November 24 and was placed on IR. Initial reports were to expect him by the start of the playoffs. This is the first week he is eligible to return from IR, so hopefully we see his practice window open this week.

If his 21-day practice window opens this week, it’s possible he doesn’t medically need the entire window and could play vs the 49ers. This scenario happened with Ifeatu Melifonwu last week. If Raymond’s window does not open this week, that implies he is 3 or more weeks away. The playoffs start in 18 days.

Jalen Reeves-Maybin – Projected return 2-3 weeks (week 18 or 1st-round playoffs)

Reeves-Maybin opened his 21-day practice window on December 19 which was not immediately after 4 weeks of IR. That suggests he will use most or all of his window before playing.

Currently, at only day 5 of his 21 day practice window, don’t expect him to be available vs the 49ers which will be on day 11. Expect him either the final regular season game vs the Vikings (day 17) or the playoffs.

Dan Campbell on Monday was vague and non-committal about Reeves-Maybin’s return date.

Alex Anzalone – Projected return 3 weeks (1st-round playoffs)

Anzalone fractured his forearm on November 17 and is currently on IR. The recovery was expected to take 6-8 weeks, and this week’s game vs the 49ers is the 6-week mark. However, since he hasn’t started his 21-day practice window yet, that suggests he is around 3 weeks away.

The first round of the playoffs, which is 8 weeks post-injury, starts in 18 days so his 21-day practice window should open this week.

David Montgomery – Projected return 4 weeks (2nd-round playoffs)

Montgomery has an MCL sprain that is severe or complicated enough that season-ending surgery was under consideration. He has chosen to try to rehab and return this season. Ian Rapaport reported this past weekend that the hope is Montgomery will be back for the divisional round which is 4 weeks away.

Montgomery was not placed on IR. Thus he can practice and play at any time, and there will be no 21-day practice window.

Ennis Rakestraw – Projected return >3 weeks (sometime in playoffs)

Rakestraw suffered his second hamstring issue of the year on November 23 and has been on IR. He was eligible to return last game vs the Bears, but his practice window did not open. This implies he is at least three weeks away.

Carlton Davis – Projected return 5 weeks (NFC Championship game)

Davis fractured his jaw on December 15 with an initial estimated recovery of six weeks. That would put him back for the NFC championship game.

Aidan Hutchinson – Projected return 7 weeks (Super Bowl)

It’s been 10 weeks since his left tib/fib fracture on October 13. There is a good chance the bone is fully healed now allowing all his energy to be directed towards rehabbing his legs enough to return for the Super Bowl. The big game is 17 weeks post-injury.

Lions vs Bears: Final injury report medical analysis plus IR update

Lions vs Bears: Final Week 16 injury report medical analysis plus Detroit IR update

The Lions were due for some good news on defense and they got it with the returns of Ifeatu Melifonwu and Jalen Reeves-Maybin, although only Melifonwu has a chance to play this Sunday. Trevor Nowaske will also return from his concussion.

The Bears had a surprise on Friday when starting CB Jaylon Johnson came down with an illness. There were a couple offensive line concerns in Braxton Jones and Teven Jenkins, but they trended upward over the course of the week and may play.

The Lions IR-list has been changing on a daily basis so scroll down for the up-to-the-moment analysis.

Here are some general IR rules strategies to keep in mind:

  • Placing a player on IR means they can’t play for four games. They also can’t start their 21-day practice window until after those four games.
  • Players who start their 21-day practice window immediately after the 4-game IR stint may not need their entire window and could be medically ready to play immediately. For example, Alim McNeill last year played in his first eligible game after being on IR for his MCL.
  • Players who don’t start their 21-day practice window immediately after the 4-game IR stint presumably are expected by medical to need most or all of their entire 21-day window before playing.
  • The Lions might use up all 10 of their IR-return slots for this season. Thus any further injuries to key players that could return this season might not be placed on IR to preserve the IR-return slots. David Montgomery is an example of this. These players will simply be one of the gameday inactives.

 

DETROIT LIONS

Out – Jalen Reeves-Maybin LB, neck (UL LP LP)

JRM was hurt November 3, placed on IR, and started his 21-day practice window on December 19. The injury was initially reported by the Lions as a shoulder but ended up being a neck.

He missed only six weeks which reassures that he did not have a serious spinal injury. While he is eligible to play this weekend, he’ll likely use most if not all of the practice window. The week-18 Vikings game is 16 days away so that game or the playoffs are the likely return dates.

Out – David Montgomery RB, knee (NP NP NP)

Knuckles had a roller-coaster of a week regarding his status. The initial reported injury was an MCL. Early in the week, Dan Campbell stated he was going to have season-ending surgery. Then later in the week, it was decided that he would not have surgery and would try to rehab and return this season.

The fact that at least one doctor thought he needed surgery suggests this isn’t a straightforward partial (grade 1 or 2) MCL tear. Indications for surgery can include an unstable complete (grade 3) tear, a distal tear, avulsion, ligament entrapment, or multi-ligament tear.

Medical science is often a gray area and ever-evolving, so it is common to have differing opinions about the best way to manage an injury. Also, each form of management (surgical vs non-surgical) has its pros/cons so there is often not a definitive right or wrong way to proceed.

With the Lions poised to max out their 10 IR-return slots already, Montgomery may not be placed on IR even if his injury is projected to take >4 weeks.

Questionable – Brian Branch S, calf (NP LP LP)

Branch reached for his right leg late in the 4th quarter which could have been when he hurt his calf. He finished the game with a slight limp. In the prior game vs the Packers, he had calf cramping at the end of the game which is probably unrelated. A calf strain could cause some missed time and Brandon Joseph would likely take his place. The 2xLP suggests it’s not too serious.

Questionable – Graham Glasgow OG, knee (NP NP LP)

Glasgow played 100% of snaps vs the Bills, and I didn’t see any obvious knee issue. He may have also injured a knee in week two but hasn’t missed a game this year. With only a single LP, it might be wise to give him a game off. Christian Mahogany may get a start as he was the one to fill in when Kevin Zeitler went out briefly two weeks ago vs the Packers.

Questionable – Ifeatu Melifonwu S, hand (FP FP FP)

The previous “finger” listing turned into a “hand”. Regardless, he started his 21-day practice window immediately after his four-week IR stint which means he could be ready to play this weekend.

In – Frank Ragnow C, back (NP NP FP)

Ragnow played 100% of the last game but wasn’t his typical elite self. Perhaps a back issue is the reason. Good to see it’s not too serious.

In – Trevor Nowaske LB, concussion (FP FP FP)

Nowaske suffered his concussion in practice last week, but he has passed through the 5-stage protocol and is ready to play.

IN – Rest designation thus no injury

Taylor Decker
DJ Reader
Za’Darius Smith
Amon-Ra St. Brown
Kevin Zeitler

NOTABLES

Amon-Ra St. Brown

Played with “food poisoning” last game and stated on his podcast that he was vomiting. Medically, this is likely infectious gastroenteritis which is usually not serious but can cause dehydration and weakness. Typically, it resolves within 2-3 days so there shouldn’t be any dehydration issue for this weekend.

Emmanuel Moseley

Dan Campbell today stated: “This is the best week he’s had since coming back from the injury.” Moseley has not played in the past three games which could be due to his hamstring strain three weeks ago. With Carlton Davis and Khalil Dorsey out, Moseley may get his first action at CB this year after missing most of the year with a pec rupture in August.

IR LIST STATUS UPDATE

Returning soon

  • Alex Anzalone, left forearm fracture 11/17 – I’m surprised that his 21-day practice window did not open this week as I felt like the final regular season game (Vikings) was a likely target. The forearm was expected to take 6-8 weeks and the Vikings game is seven weeks post-injury and only 16 days away. The playoffs start in 22 days so even if that is the target, starting the 21-day window this week could have made sense. Forearm fractures heal very reliably so a setback is unlikely but not impossible. Hopefully, we see his window open early next week.
  • Kalif Raymond, left foot 11/24 – Initial reports were to expect him by the start of the playoffs. With the playoffs starting in 22 days, his practice window will hopefully open next week.

Early playoffs at best

  • Ennis Rakestraw, hamstring 11/23 – Eligible to return this week vs the Bears but his 21-day practice window did not open. This implies he is at least three weeks away.

Late playoffs is possible

  • Carlton Davis, jaw fracture 12/15 – Initial estimated recovery of six weeks would put him at the NFC championship game, but Dan Campbell today stated: “It doesn’t look optimistic to get him back”. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • Aidan Hutchinson, left tib/fib fracture 10/13 – Expecting very limited action in the Super Bowl. Hutchinson has significant expected atrophy in his legs so it all depends on how quickly rehab goes. In 3rd year of 4-year rookie contract with 5th-year option. Expect an extension this coming offseason.

Not expected to return

  • Derrick Barnes, right MCL/PCL surgery – Unlikely to be back. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • John Cominsky, MCL surgery – On December 18, Dan Campbell stated he was unlikely to return this season. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • Alim McNeill, right ACL – Expect his return around October-November of 2025. Signed an extension this past offseason through the 2028 season.
  • Khalil Dorsey, right ankle/leg fracture – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Malcolm Rodriguez, right ACL – Expect his return around October 2025. Next season will be the final year of his rookie contract.
  • Marcus Davenport, left elbow – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Kyle Peko, left pec – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Mekhi Wingo, right knee – In 1st year of four-year rookie contract.

IR return count (5 of 10 used)

  • Lions have used 5 of 10 returns with Brodric Martin, Moseley, Reeves-Maybin, and Melifonwu twice. At this point, the last 5 will likely go to Anzalone, Raymond, Rakestraw, Davis, and Hutchinson who all could be back by the Super Bowl.
  • During the regular season, the Lions can only use a max of 8 returns but that’s not an issue as Davis and Hutchinson won’t be ready until the playoffs.

CHICAGO BEARS

Out – Ryan Bates OL, concussion (NP NP NP)

Bates might be a starter but has only appeared in three games this year and has missed the last four games. He’ll be out again.

Doubtful – Travis Homer RB, hamstring (UL UL LP)

Homer is mainly a special teams player this year.

Questionable – Jaylon Johnson CB, illness (UL UL NP)

Most common illnesses like respiratory infections or “food poisoning” can resolve within two days. Losing this quality starting CB would be a big deal. The Lions receivers are healthy and could take advantage.

Questionable – Braxton Jones OL, concussion (NP FP FP)

Jones is the starting LT and missed last game with this concussion. The FPx2 suggests he has passed through the concussion protocol and is ready to play.

Questionable – Teven Jenkins OL, calf (NP NP LP)

Jenkins is the starting LG. He played 96% snaps last game.

Questionable – Gervon Dexter DL, knee (NP NP LP)

Dexter is a starting DT who leads the team in sacks with five. He missed last game and seems likely to miss another.

In – Darrell Taylor DL, shoulder (FP FP FP)

Taylor is a backup DE who appeared to hurt his left shoulder last game.

In – Roschon Johnson RB, concussion (FP FP FP)

Johnson has missed the last two games but is ready now. He has 139 rushing yards on the year behind starter D’Andre Swift.

 

 

Lions vs Bears: Initial injury report medical analysis

Lions vs Bears: Initial injury report and medical analysis for the Week 16 matchup

The last game vs the Bills was a brutal one for the Lions as three players were placed on IR (Alim McNeill, Carlton Davis, and Khalil Dorsey) with another one pending (David Montgomery).

There are still three regular season games left with the valuable #1 seed in play. It will be interesting to watch the snap counts of key players going forward.

The Bears have a couple injuries along the offensive line to watch this week.

DETROIT LIONS

David Montgomery RB – knee (NP)

Montgomery is reported to have an MCL sprain that is severe enough to be considering surgery.

Dan Campbell today and Montgomery yesterday both stated that the decision regarding his injury is pending. Presumably the decision is between 1) getting season-ending surgery, or 2) seeing if it can heal on its own well enough to return this season.

Most MCL injuries, even complete tears, can heal without surgery, so there may be a complicating factor such as a distal tear, avulsion, ligament entrapment, or multi-ligament injury.

Brian Branch S – calf (NP)

Branch reached for his right leg late in the 4th quarter which could have been when he hurt his calf. He finished the game with a slight limp. In the prior game vs the Packers, he had calf cramping at the end of the game which is probably unrelated. A calf strain could cause some missed time so keep an eye on his practice status over the course of this week.

Graham Glasgow OG – knee (NP)

Glasgow played 100% of snaps vs the Bills, and I didn’t see any obvious knee issue. He may have also injured a knee in week two but hasn’t missed a game this year.

Trevor Nowaske LB – concussion (FP)

Nowaske suffered his concussion in practice last week but the FP means he should play on Sunday.

Ifeatu Melifonwu S – hand (FP)

The previous “finger” listing has turned into a “hand”. Regardless, he is starting is 21-day practice window immediately after his four-week IR stint which means he could be ready to play this weekend.

REST designation thus no injury

Taylor Decker
Frank Ragnow
DJ Reader
Za’Darius Smith
Amon-Ra St. Brown
Kevin Zeitler

NOTABLES

Amon-Ra St. Brown

Played with “food poisoning” last game. Medically, this is likely infectious gastroenteritis which is usually not serious but can cause dehydration and weakness. Typically resolves within 2-3 days so there shouldn’t be any issue for this weekend.

Alim McNeill

Placed on IR with ACL tear. Expected return around November 2025.

Carlton Davis

Placed on IR with jaw fracture. Could be back in six weeks for NFC championship game.

Khalil Dorsey

Placed on IR with ankle/leg fracture. No chance of return this season but good chance to be recovered by start of next season.

IR LIST STATUS UPDATE

Returning soon

  • Alex Anzalone, left forearm fracture – I’m surprised that his 21-day practice window did not open today. I was expecting him to be ready by the Vikings game which will be seven weeks post injury and only 18 days away. There is still a chance he could start practice later this week, but if he doesn’t, then we might not see him until the playoffs.
  • Kalif Raymond, left foot – Expected by the start of the playoffs. His 21-day practice window is eligible to open next week and should open next week.

Early playoffs at best

  • Ennis Rakestraw, hamstring – Eligible to return this week vs the Bears but his 21-day practice window did not open today. This means he won’t play this weekend and may be more than three weeks away.
  • Jalen Reeves-Maybin, neck – Eligible to return anytime but has not had his 21-day practice window opened yet. This implies he is at least three weeks away. He is signed through the 2025 season.

Late playoffs is possible

  • Carlton Davis, jaw fracture – Initial estimated recovery of six weeks would put him at the NFC championship game. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • Aidan Hutchinson, left tib/fib fracture – Expecting very limited action in the Super Bowl. Hutchinson has significant expected atrophy in his legs so it all depends on how quickly rehab goes. In 3rd year of 4-year rookie contract with 5th-year option. Expect an extension this coming offseason.

Not expected to return

  • Derrick Barnes, right MCL/PCL surgery – Unlikely to be back. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • John Cominsky, MCL surgery – On December 18, Dan Campbell stated he was unlikely to return this season. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • Alim McNeill, right ACL – Expect his return around October-November of 2025. Signed an extension this past offseason through the 2028 season.
  • Khalil Dorsey, right ankle/leg fracture – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Malcolm Rodriguez, right ACL – Expect his return around October 2025. Next season will be the final year of his rookie contract.
  • Marcus Davenport, left elbow – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Kyle Peko, left pec – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Mekhi Wingo, right knee – In 1st year of four-year rookie contract.

IR return count

  • Lions have used 4 of 10 returns with Brodric Martin, Emmanuel Moseley, and Ifeatu Melifonwu twice. With 6 potential candidates, it’s unlikely the Lions will run out of return slots unless more players go on IR.
  • David Montgomery’s status is up-in-the-air and if he could return in a few weeks, the Lions may decide to carry him on the active roster instead of using up an IR-return slot.

CHICAGO BEARS

Braxton Jones OL – concussion (NP)

Jones is the starting LT and missed last game with this concussion. The NP means he might miss another.

Teven Jenkins OL – calf (NP)

Jenkins is the starting LG. He played 96% snaps last game.

Gervon Dexter DL – knee (NP)

Dexter is a starting DT that missed last game and might miss another.

Ryan Bates OL – concussion (NP)

Bates has only appeared in three games this year and has missed the last four games.

Darrell Taylor DL – shoulder (FP)

Taylor is a backup DE who appeared to hurt his left shoulder last game.

Roschon Johnson RB – concussion (FP)

Johnson has missed the last two games but looks to be ready. He has 139 rushing yards on the year behind starter D’Andre Swift.

 

Lions roster moves: 3 defenders placed on I.R., Anthony Pittman returns

Detroit Lions roster moves: 3 defenders placed on I.R., Anthony Pittman returns and some practice squad swapping

Tuesday is typically the player’s day off for the Detroit Lions at the team’s practice facility. It’s also often the day when player personnel moves get made, and this Tuesday after the Lions loss to the Bills was no exception.

As expected, the Lions placed three defensive players on injured reserve. All three were injured in Sunday’s 48-42 defeat:
DT Alim McNeill
CB Carlton Davis
CB Khalil Dorsey

McNeill (knee) and Dorsey (leg) are out for the season, while there’s a chance Davis could return from a broken jaw before the Super Bowl, should the 12-2 Lions make it that far.

The Lions added one player to the active roster. The previously reported move was signing former Lions LB Anthony Pittman from the Jaguars practice squad.

Detroit also made a swap on the practice squad. The Lions added cornerback Stanley Thomas-Oliver to the practice squad and released EDGE Isaiah Thomas.

That leaves two openings on the 53-man active roster heading into Wednesday’s practice to get ready for Sunday’s game at Chicago against the Bears.

 

Detroit Lions I.R. list status update after the Bills game

Breaking down the Detroit Lions I.R. list status update after the Bills game

Three more Lions defenders will almost certainly land on IR after the Bills game – Alim McNeill, Carlton Davis, and Khalil Dorsey. Unfortunately, all of them are long-term injuries with Davis being the only one with a chance to come back this season.

David Montgomery also sustained a more-serious-than-expected knee injury (MCL) that will require surgery and put him out for the year.

At some point (maybe now), the Lions will need to calculate if they have enough IR-return slots remaining, and if they should carry short-term injuries on the active roster instead of putting them on IR. I explain more at the end of this article.

Returning soon

  • Alex Anzalone, left forearm fracture – Expect his 21-day practice window to open this week with a possible return to play in week 17 vs the 49ers or week 18 vs the Vikings.
  • Ifeatu Melifonwu, left finger – Today (Monday), Dan Campbell stated that his 21-day practice window would open this week. This means he could play this Sunday vs the Bears.
  • Kalif Raymond, left foot – Expected by the start of the playoffs. His 21-day practice window should open after this week’s Bears game.

Early playoffs at best

  • Ennis Rakestraw, hamstring – Eligible to return this week vs the Bears. Dan Campbell on Monday implied that his 21-day practice window would not open this week. This suggests he is at least three more weeks away.
  • Jalen Reeves-Maybin, neck – Eligible to return anytime but has not had his 21-day practice window opened yet. This implies he is at least 3 weeks away. At this point, his earliest projected return would be in the playoffs. Dan Campbell on December 9 corroborated a multi-week timeline stating he’s “better… There’s a chance we could get him in a few weeks.” While there are no details about his neck injury, this update is reassuring that it isn’t anything overly serious. He is signed through the 2025 season.

Late playoffs at best

  • Carlton Davis, jaw fracture – Initial estimated recovery of six weeks would put him at the NFC championship game. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • Aidan Hutchinson, left tib/fib fracture – Expecting very limited action in the Super Bowl although Jay Glazer reported that the NFC championship game is a possibility. Hutchinson has significant expected atrophy in his legs so it all depends on how quickly rehab goes. In 3rd year of 4-year rookie contract with 5th-year option. Expect an extension this coming offseason.
  • John Cominsky, MCL surgery – Initial estimate projected a January return at best. Unrestricted free agent after this year.
  • Derrick Barnes, right MCL/PCL surgery – Unlikely to be back. Unrestricted free agent after this year.

Not expected to return

  • David Montgomery, right MCL surgery – No details yet but hopefully he will be fully recovered for the start of next season.
  • Alim McNeill, right ACL – Expect his return around October-November of 2025. Signed an extension this past offseason through the 2028 season.
  • Khalil Dorsey, right ankle/leg fracture – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Malcolm Rodriguez, right ACL – Expect his return around October 2025. Next season will be the final year of his rookie contract.
  • Marcus Davenport, left elbow – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Kyle Peko, left pec – Unrestricted free agent this offseason.
  • Mekhi Wingo, right knee – In 1st year of four-year rookie contract.

NFL IR RETURN RULES AND STRATEGY

Lions can return as may IR players as they want in the playoffs as long as it doesn’t add up to more than 10 for the entire year (regular season 8 + playoffs 2). So far, the Lions have returned four – Brodric Martin, Emmanuel Moseley, Ifeatu Melifonwu twice.

Expect Anzalone and Raymond to take two spots and Hutchinson to have a spot reserved for him just in case. This leaves just three returns left with four defenders (Rakestraw, Davis, Reeves-Maybin, Cominsky) being the likely options.

If the Lions feel that all four defenders can return, then it is possible that an offensive player like Raymond could be sacrificed to help the defense. Or the Lions could avoid that decision entirely by not putting Davis on IR and  carrying him on the active roster. He would just be one of the seven inactives on gameday every week.

There are still three games left in the season so more injuries are possible, and more short-term injured players may need to be carried on the roster.

Lions lose DT Alim McNeill and CB Carlton Davis to long-term injuries

Lions lose DT Alim McNeill for the season and CB Carlton Davis for at least the rest of the regular season to injuries

Another week down in the NFL and another set of injuries occur to the Detroit Lions defense. To this point, when was the last time the Lions played a game without any sort of significant injury to one of their defensive players? It feels like since July, they’ve been hampered by injuries.

 

After yesterday’s loss to the Buffalo Bills, it was evident that cornerback Carlton Davis and defensive tackle Alim McNeill were injured. Both players were helped off the field, and it didn’t take long for announcements that both players were out for the game.

For McNeill, he will be done for the season as he tore his ACL. It’s unfortunate as he had been playing at such a high level for much of the season. According to PFF, McNeill has earned a 78.9 overall grade (10th in DL rankings) this season. He recorded 33 hurries (4th) and 40 total pressures (11th) with 4 sacks on the year. The Lions do have DJ Reader, but replacing McNeill will be tough this late into the season.

 

As for Carlton Davis, he suffered a broken jaw and will need surgery. He’s set to miss up to sixweeks due to the injury. If all goes right for the Lions, they could have Davis back for the NFC Championship. Prior to the injury, Davis had been playing some of his best football.

Since Week 9, Davis had an overall grade of 83.1 (among players with a minimum of 100 snaps played), per PFF. He also has a coverage grade of 86.4, which leads the league as well. The Lions will need to get creative in replacing Davis. Not just because of how productive he’s been but his backup, Khalil Dorsey, is also going to miss the rest of the season with a fractured leg that he suffered against Buffalo.

[lawrence-related id=117001]

The Lions certainly control their own destiny, but the injuries continue to mount for their defense. That makes it difficult to believe they find ways to stop the opposition moving forward. Despite there being a small glimmer of hope for the Lions to win the Super Bowl, one thing is for sure: never count a Dan Campbell-led football team out.

Options for the Lions to replace top CB Carlton Davis

Breaking down the options for the Lions to replace top CB Carlton Davis after he suffered an injury in Detroit’s loss to Buffalo

The Detroit Lions defense suffered a major injury in the Week 15 loss to the Buffalo Bills. Starting cornerback Carlton Davis went down with a head injury in the first half and was ruled out. After the game, head coach Dan Campbell did not sound at all optimistic about Davis’ availability to play anytime soon; it’s a potential season-ending injury, according to Campbell.

Davis had been playing exceptional football leading up to the injury. No cornerback earned a higher PFF coverage grade over the prior four weeks than Davis. His ability to anticipate routes and stay in phase in coverage against varying types of receivers is something Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn leaned upon to build Detroit’s coverage scheme.

Replacing him this late into the season won’t be easy. Perhaps the top option was “next man up” Khalil Dorsey, but Dorsey is out for the year with a gnarly broken leg suffered in the same game.

Move Amik Robertson outside

Slot corner Amik Robertson has considerable NFL starting experience playing on the outside. Despite his lack of size at 5-foot-9 and 183 pounds, Robertson proved a significantly better outside corner than slot during his years with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Robertson is playing well inside for the Lions, where he’s been ensconced since the team’s minicamp in June. Moving him to Davis’ spot would require shuffling in someone new to the slot, of course. Emmanuel Moseley could be an option there; Moseley was repping ahead of Robertson inside before suffering a torn pec in training camp. Now healthy and active again, Moseley has been a healthy scratch since returning from I.R.

Kindle Vildor

Against the Bills, Vildor was the primary replacement for Davis post-injury. Given how porous the entire defense played on Sunday, it’s hard to separate the wheat from the chaff in evaluating Vildor’s performance against Buffalo without deeper film review.

Vildor is known for two things: his twitchy athleticism and his epic gaffe in the NFC Championship game in San Francisco. There might not be a faster player to top speed on the entire roster than Vildor — including Jahmyr Gibbs and Jameson Williams — and his leaping ability and change-of-direction quickness are incredibly impressive. Yet they don’t always translate well in coverage, where Vildor has proven to be impatient and unsure of his surroundings too often.

He knows the system, has experience in the role and has the athletic profile to provide something close to what Davis offered. Whether Vildor can step up his game is the issue.

Emmanuel Moseley

As noted above, Moseley is healthy and active. At least in spirit, anyway. In practice, the Lions have kept the oft-injured veteran on ice even after activating him from I.R. three weeks ago.

Moseley was on track to win the starting slot CB gig, though that’s a spot he’s almost never played in his seven-year NFL career, primarily with the 49ers. He’s an outside corner with size and press-man experience, noted for his tackling and pre-snap recognition.

The issue with turning to Moseley is his own lengthy injury history. He’s played exactly four snaps since Week 5 of the 2022 season, thanks to two separate torn ACLs and the torn pec that sidelined him for the first 11 games of 2024. Moseley has spent time on I.R. in six of his seven NFL seasons, and the injuries are literally all over his body.

Ennis Rakestraw

Rakestraw is currently on I.R. with a hamstring injury suffered in practice before the Lions’ Week 12 game against the Colts. That means he’s spent the required minimum time on the injured list and is eligible to be activated — if he’s healthy.

Big “if” there…

Rakestraw has battled soft tissue injuries (like the hamstring) going back to his high school days. He’s already had three separate instances of missing time in his eight months with the Lions. One of the reasons a player with his coverage talent and impressive length fell to the No. 61 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft was very real concerns over his ability to stay on the field. Thus far, those concerns have been validated.

Dan Campbell has thus far offered little on Rakestraw’s progress. Pay attention to if he’s seen working out during the limited portion of practice open to the media on Monday and Wednesday. Also, keep in mind that Rakestraw played behind both Dorsey and Vildor on the defensive depth chart when he was healthy.

Practice squad and outside help

The Lions currently have one corner on the practice squad, undrafted rookie Morice Norris. The Fresno State product showed some physicality and intensity in training camp, enough that he cross-trained at safety. He’s a natural slot corner, so elevating Norris would mean he’s a backup option on the inside only, as well as for special teams purposes.

As for free agents, there are very limited options. The most prominent name, former Pro Bowler Xavien Howard, has been on the workout circuit for months and failed to impress Cincinnati, Dallas and others enough in those workouts to get signed despite injury desperation with those teams.

Old friend Jerry Jacobs is the most appealing option on the free agent market. Jacobs started 29 games in three seasons in Detroit, including 12 last year. His coverage work was inconsistent, and he too has not latched on anywhere despite several workouts with different teams–including the Broncos just last week. Jacobs knows the defensive system and at least provides strong run support on the outside, making him a worthwhile candidate to return to Detroit.