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.

 

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.

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.

Lions vs Bills: Final injury report medical analysis plus injured reserve player update

Lions vs Bills: Final injury report medical analysis plus injured reserve player update on when some of those Lions might return

Coming into the season, the Detroit Lions offense was expected to be the strength of this team. That is even more so now with the offense in excellent health coupled with a defense riddled with injury. This past week, Dan Campbell acknowledged that the offense would shoulder more responsibility and to expect the aggressive 4th-down decisions to continue.

With Taylor Decker’s return after missing two games, the Lions offensive starting unit is fully intact and most key reserves are healthy as well. The offense will need to put up points to stay ahead of a high-powered Bills offense which boasts the leading MVP candidate, Josh Allen, and will feature the return of two impact pass catchers in Dalton Kincaid and Keon Coleman.

The Lions defensive line trended sharply upward during the week with DJ Reader, Levi Onwuzurike, Josh Paschal, and Alim McNeill all rapidly progressing to the point that they are definitively in. The linebacker unit took a surprise hit with Trevor Nowaske’s midweek concussion.

The Bills defense will have a banged-up secondary with a starting CB out and both starting safeties nursing injuries with questionable status.



DETROIT LIONS

Out – Trevor Nowaske LB, (UL NP NP)

This backup LB played 64% of snaps last game. Presumably he got a concussion in Wednesday’s practice which will force him to miss this game.

At LB, Jack Campbell played 100% of snaps last game and expect that to continue. Ezekiel Turner (34%), Kwon Alexander (34%), David Long (32%), Jamal Adams (16%), and Ben Niemann (2%) are candidates to fill the void.


In – Alim McNeill DT, concussion (FP FP FP)

See my initial injury report analysis for the full timeline of his concussion. There was also concern for a non-concussion head or jaw issue. Very good news that everything has resolved quickly.


In – Taylor Decker OT, knee (FP FP FP)

A suspected right MCL and right high or medial ankle sprain on November 24 forced him to miss two games. With his return, the entire offensive starters are intact. Dan Skipper, who filled in admirably at LT, will return to his normal role as jumbo TE and 9th-string WR.


In – DJ Reader DT, shoulder (NP LP FP)

Reader hurt his left shoulder on Thanksgiving in a manner that is concerning for a shoulder subluxation and missed one game. While a subluxation is still a possibility, his quick return gives hope that it was just a mild shoulder strain.


In – Levi Onwuzurike DT, hamstring (LP LP FP)

A left hamstring strain on Thanksgiving caused him to miss one game. Hamstrings can easily take multiple weeks so it’s good to see that this one was mild.


In – Josh Paschal DE, knee (LP FP FP)

A right knee injury on Thanksgiving caused him to miss one game. Video did not suggest anything too concerning.


Injured reserve list update

Returning soon:

  • Alex Anzalone, left forearm fracture – Expect his 21-day practice window to open early next week with a possible return to play in week 17 (49ers) or week 18 (Vikings).
  • Kalif Raymond, left foot – Expected by the start of the playoffs. His 21-day practice window should open after next week’s Bears game.

Uncertain but hopeful to return soon:

  • Ennis Rakestraw, hamstring – Eligible to return next week vs the Bears. Keep an eye on if his 21-day practice window opens early next week. If it doesn’t open next week, that implies he is at least three more weeks away.
  • Ifeatu Melifonwu, left finger – Same situation as Rakestraw. Eligible to return next week vs the Bears. Hope for his 21-day practice window to open early next week. If it doesn’t open next week, that implies he is at least three more weeks away.

Early playoffs at best:

  • Jalen Reeves-Maybin, neck – He is 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.

Late playoffs at best:

  • Aidan Hutchinson, left tib/fib fracture – Expecting very limited action in the Super Bowl although Jay Glazer reported a few days ago that the NFC championship game is a possibility. Currently nine weeks from injury, the bone should be close to healed at this point. Hutchinson has significant expected atrophy in his legs so it all depends on how quickly rehab goes.
  • John Cominsky, MCL surgery – Initial estimate projected a January return at best.
  • Derrick Barnes, right MCL/PCL surgery – Unlikely to be back.

Not expected to return:

  •  Malcolm Rodriguez, right ACL
  •  Marcus Davenport, left elbow
  •  Kyle Peko, left pec
  •  Mekhi Wingo, right knee

NFL IR PLAYOFF RULES

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 + playoffs). So far, the Lions have returned three (Brodric Martin, Emmanuel Moseley, Ifeatu Melifonwu).



BUFFALO BILLS

Credit to @BangedUpBills for help with the analysis. The Bills had a walkthrough on Wednesday and a virtual meeting only on Thursday.

Out – Rasul Douglas CB, knee (NP NP NP)

This starting CB has not missed a game this year but will miss his first after hurting his left knee last game.

Questionable – Taylor Rapp S, neck/shoulder (NP NP LP)

Rapp hurt himself two weeks ago and was limited in the last game despite playing every snap. He may continue to try to play through but there are rumors that he will be out.

Questionable – Damar Hamlin S, back/ribs (FP NP LP)

This starting safety has played in every game this year logging close to 100% of snaps including 100% last game. Unless something significant happened during walkthroughs, he’ll likely play. He has 2 interceptions this year.

Questionable – Dalton Kincaid TE, knee (FP FP FP)

Expect this starting TE to play after missing the last three games due to a PCL. He is a very good receiver with 34 receptions for 356 yards this year.

Questionable – Dawuane Smoot DE, wrist (FP FP FP)

Smoot missed the last four games on IR with wrist surgery but is eligible to return on Sunday. He typically plays about 50% of snaps.

Questionable – Baylon Spector LB, calf (FP FP FP)

After missing four games on IR, Spector is eligible to return on Sunday. He has started multiple games this year.

Questionable – Casey Toohill DE, ribs (LP LP LP)

Toohill is a backup DE who plays about 25% of snaps.

Questionable – Quintin Morris TE, shoulder/groin (FP FP FP)

Morris is a backup who has 2 receptions for 16 yards this year.

Questionable – Tylan Grable OT, groin (FP FP FP)

Grable has not played since September 23.

In – Keon Coleman WR, wrist (FP FP FP)

This 2nd-round rookie will return after missing the last four games. He has 22 catches for 417 yards which is second on the team behind Khalil Shakir (735 yards).


Here is the full report:

Hope index for each of the Detroit Lions injured reserve players

Hope index for each of the Detroit Lions injured reserve players and if/when they can return to action, including Aidan Hutchinson and Derrick Barnes

Hope and optimism are filling the air this holiday season for Lions fans. There is more reason for hope than any season in decades with an NFL-leading 11-1 record. With the playoffs rapidly approaching, team health from this point forward will be a major factor in determining their fate.

Let’s check the outlook of the players on injured reserve (IR) using quotes about hope from some of my favorite movies.


“You must complete your mission. You must lay the seeds for the future. You’re here to influence history and worlds to come.”

– Mr. Robertson in Predestination

Aidan Hutchinson – left tibia/fibula fracture, October 13

This superstar DE was on the short list for defensive player of the year before his injury. The timeline for a tib/fib recovery is typically at least four months.

The Super Bowl is 17 weeks from the time of his injury. I expect him to return for the big game, albeit in limited fashion and with limited ability. He won’t have his usual quickness, strength, or stamina, but he may still be effective as a decoy and distraction to the opponent. The greatest value of his early return may be off-the-field as an inspirational, emotional boost to the team and the fanbase.

Next season, he should be back to his elite self as he cements his influence on Lions history.


“I do not believe it to be a matter of hope, it is simply a matter of time.”

– Morpheus in The Matrix

These players have short-term injuries that will allow them to return for the start of the playoffs or even before.

Alex Anzalone – left forearm fracture, November 17

This speedy starting LB has an estimated 6-8 week recovery for his forearm. The silver lining to the injury is that his legs are unaffected allowing him to return stronger and fresher than before. December 30 (Week 17) or January 5 (Week 18) are likely dates for his return.

Kalif Raymond – left foot, November 24

The Lions’ primary kick returner and valuable backup WR fortunately avoided a serious foot injury. He is expected to be back at the latest for the start of the playoffs, and is eligible to return with two games left in the regular season on December 30.


“I will see you again. But not yet. Not yet.”

– Juba in Gladiator

It’s unknown whether we will see these players yet again this season due to uncertain severity and prognosis. But they are signed with the Lions for future years, so if they don’t return this season, we should see them in the next.

Jalen Reeves-Maybin – neck, November 3

This special-teams captain and valuable backup LB has an unspecified neck injury. He is eligible to return December 5 (week 14) and is signed through the 2025 season.

Ennis Rakestraw – hamstring, November 22

This 2nd-round rookie has had two hamstring issues this season. The first one in September cost him two games. The second will cost at least four games with the earliest possible return date of December 22 (week 16). He is in the 1st year of his 4-year rookie contract.


“Hope Can Be A Dangerous Thing.”

– Red in The Shawshank Redemption

Ifeatu Melifonwu – ankle, August 17; finger, November 14

After ending last season in spectacular fashion, there was hope that Melifonwu could build on that this year. Unfortunately, multiple prolonged injuries this year made hope for his return a dangerous thing.

After an injury to his ankle area in preseason, there was an uncertain recovery causing a delayed placement on IR. I suspect Achilles tendonitis, given the uncertain recovery timeline.

After he started his practice window in November, he was placed on IR a second time with an unspecified finger injury. The recovery timeline of the finger is unknown, and it’s not even certain that the ankle/Achilles is ready-to-go.

Hope is fading that he can help the team at all this year. The earliest he can return is December 22 (week 16).


“My mama always told me that miracles happen every day. Some people don’t think so, but they do.”

– Forrest in Forrest Gump

These players have long-term injuries with recovery timelines of multiple months. It may take a minor miracle for them to return for the playoffs.

John Cominsky – MCL, July 30

The “Commish” had MCL surgery with an estimated 5-6 month recovery. If the estimate is accurate, he could be back in January. His return would aide both the DT and DE positions as he can effectively play both.

Derrick Barnes – right MCL & PCL, September 22

This hybrid LB/DE had surgery for an MCL and PCL injury. There is still a glimmer of hope he could return late in the playoffs. However, he will need to make fast progress in rehab as he was only just getting on an exercise bike in mid-November.


“Hope is a mistake. If you can’t fix what’s broken, you’ll go insane.”

– Max in Mad Max: Fury Road

For these players, hope for a return this season is a mistake. Their injuries will have been surgically fixed and require a long recovery.

Malcolm Rodriguez – right ACL, November 28

Rodrigo tore his ACL on Thanksgiving. The recovery timeline is around 11 months so hopefully he’ll be back around October next year. Expect him to start training camp on the PUP (physically unable to perform) list. He is signed through the 2025 season on his rookie contract.

Marcus Davenport – left elbow, September 22

This free agent was signed to start at DE opposite Hutchinson but only appeared in two games before hurting his left elbow. Scattered reports suggest a triceps rupture and there does not appear to be any possibility he’ll be back this season.

Kyle Peko – left pec rupture, October 13

This valuable backup DT ruptured his pec requiring surgery. Given the importance of pec strength to his position, there is no hope for a return this season.

Mekhi Wingo – right knee, November 28

Dan Campbell stated that this 6th-round rookie DT would be out for the season with an unspecified knee injury that will probably require surgery.


“Welcome to the party, pal!”

– John McClane in Die Hard

Congrats to these players who have battled through long stints on IR to join the active roster party.

Brodric Martin – right knee hyperextension, August 24

This 2nd-year DT played for the first time this season on Thanksgiving with two defensive snaps. With injuries mounting along the defensive line, his workload may spike in the next game.

Emmanuel Moseley – pec rupture, August 5

This 28-year-old CB has recovered from pec surgery, not to mention ACL tears each of the past two years. On November 24, he returned to play 15 special teams snaps vs the Colts. Unexpectedly, he was inactive the next game vs the Bears due to a minor unspecified pregame issue.


And one final quote, for all Lions fans in the midst of this glorious season…

“The unknown future rolls toward us. I face it, for the first time, with a sense of hope.”

– Sarah Connor in Terminator 2

Lions lose rookie CB for Week 12 with late-week injury

The Detroit Lions lose rookie CB Ennis Rakestraw for Week 12 with late-week hamstring injury

There was a surprising and unfortunate addition to the Detroit Lions injury list for Week 12. After being a full participant all week until Friday, rookie cornerback Ennis Rakestraw was ruled out of Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts with a hamstring injury.

It’s a new occurrence of an old injury bug that has bitten Rakestraw since before he joined the Lions as a second-round pick in April. He missed time over the summer with a hamstring injury and dealt with several injury issues throughout his college career at Missouri.

Rakestraw plays more on special teams than on Detroit’s defense, so it’s not a significant loss for the Lions against the Colts. However, with starter Carlton Davis already dealing with a broken thumb, it’s still concerning. Davis, like Rakestraw this week and Taylor Decker in Week 10, suffered his injury in practice during the week heading into Detroit’s Week 11 matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

 

Lions vs Colts: Final injury report medical analysis

Lions vs Colts: Final injury report medical analysis for both teams ahead of their Week 12 matchup

One of the key matchups to watch will be the Lions weakened front-7 who just lost a starting LB vs the Colts weakened offensive line who will be missing three starters.

Over the week, the Lions had two new injuries to CB’s, but otherwise the active roster is healthy. The Colts had an upgrade to their RT who will play.


DETROIT LIONS

Out – Ennis Rakestraw CB (hamstring UL UL NP)

Rakestraw had a hamstring strain earlier this year and missed weeks two and three. It’s uncertain the severity of the current hamstring injury. We will know more depending on if he is placed on IR this weekend. He has otherwise been healthy after coming back from core muscle surgery about 11 months ago.

Questionable – Terrion Arnold CB (groin UL LP FP)

On Friday, Dan Campbell stated: “This morning he went in and got treatment, everything looks like it’s pretty good…. I’m not concerned right now but we’ll see how this day goes.” Those words are reassuring that Arnold does not have a significant injury. The FP strongly suggests he will play vs the Colts.

In the unlikely event that Arnold is out, expect to see Kindle Vildor who filled in when Carlton Davis left as a precaution last game.

Questionable – Emmanuel Moseley CB (pec FP FP FP)

Dan Campbell stated on Friday: “He’s trending the right way…. We see him doing a little bit of everything corner, nickel, safety.”

Moseley tore his pec in August and opened his 21-day practice window on November 6. The loss of Rakestraw slightly increases the chances Moseley will be active, but I still expect him to be out. If he’s indeed out, expect him to be moved to the active roster early next week with a chance to play on Thanksgiving.

In – Sam LaPorta TE (shoulder FP FP FP)

LaPorta missed one game with a left AC joint sprain. Dan Campbell on Friday stated: “He’s been good….he’s got fresh legs.” LaPorta is in with no expected limitations.

In – Carlton Davis CB (thumb FP FP FP)

Davis broke his left thumb last week in practice and played the entire first half vs the Jaguars in a thumb splint. He was pulled for the second half presumably as a precaution. The 3x FP is reassuring that the thumb is recovering fine.

In – Shane Zylstra TE (neck FP FP FP)

Zylstra left the last game late in the fourth quarter. Fortunately, the neck injury was not serious.

NOTABLES

Out – Jalen Reeves-Maybin

JRM was place on IR two weeks ago for an unspecified neck injury. His earliest eligible return is week 14 vs the Packers. Dan Campbell on Friday gave an update: “We’re hopeful [he’ll return], but we really don’t know at this time.”

Out – Alex Anzalone

This starting LB was placed on IR this week with a forearm fracture. He should be back in about seven weeks.

In – Brodric Martin

This is Martin’s first week on the active roster after a right knee hyperextension in preseason. Whether he is active on gameday will depend on where the coaches view him on the depth chart.


INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

Out – Bernhard Raimann LT (knee NP NP NP)

This starting LT will miss his second straight game.

Questionable – Tyquan Lewis DE (elbow FP FP FP)

Having just opened his practice window this week after missing seven games, I would not expect him to play.

In – Josh Downs WR (calf  UL FP FP)

Downs has the most receptions on the team with 50 for 567 yards. Only Alec Pierce has more receiving yardage with 590.

In – Braden Smith RT (foot/rest LP FP NP)

This starting RT has played every game this year and that will continue.

In – Michael Pittman WR (back FP FP FP)

Pittman has been dealing with a back issue for a few weeks but will play through. He has 35 catches for 412 yards on the year.

In – Kenny Moore CB (knee UL FP FP)

Moore plays almost 100% of defensive snaps.

In – DeForest Buckner DT (rest UL UL NP)

In – Zaire Franklin LB (rest UL UL NP)

In – Grover Stewart DT (rest UL UL NP)

NOTABLES

Out – Ryan Kelly C

This starting center has missed the last two games on IR.

Out – Will Fries RG

This starting RG has missed the last six games on IR.

Lions inactives for Week 3 vs Cardinals: Anzalone out, 3 healthy scratches

Lions inactives for Week 3 vs Cardinals: Anzalone out, 3 healthy scratches including James Houston

The Detroit Lions have released their list of inactive players for the Week 3 matchup with the Arizona Cardinals.

Two players were already ruled out on the final injury report. Cornerback Ennis Rakestraw and safety Ifeatu Melifonwu are both out due to injuries, with Rakestraw’s coming in pregame warmups in Week 2.

Linebacker Alex Anzalone was questionable with a concussion, and No. 34 will sit this one out, too. Rookie wide receiver Isaiah Williams was also questionable with an abdominal injury that kept him limited in practices, and he also will not play.

That leaves three healthy scratches for Detroit in Arizona:

OL Colby Sorsdal

EDGE James Houston

OL Giovanni Manu

 

 

Lions vs. Cardinals: Friday injury report medical breakdown

Lions vs. Cardinals: Friday injury report medical breakdown and outlook from Dr. Liao

For the Lions, the only starter I’m expecting to be out is Alex Anzalone. Otherwise, the Lions are healthy heading into Arizona.

The Cardinals started the week with a tiny injury report but had two players suffer new hamstring injuries during the week that could impact the game.


DETROIT LIONS

See my postgame report for videos of injuries to Anzalone, St. Brown, and Arnold.

Alex Anzalone (NP LP LP) QUESTIONABLE concussion, LB

The 2x LP to finish the week gives him a chance. But I’m guessing he and the Lions play it safe instead of trying to rush through the concussion protocol. If he’s out, his excellent speed will be missed as the Lions try to contain Kyler Murray.

Graham Glasgow (NP LP LP) QUESTIONABLE knee, OG

After playing 100% of snaps last game vs the Bucs with no obvious signs of knee injury on video, Glasgow’s knee was a surprise listing. We don’t know the diagnosis but Dan Campbell said Friday, “he’s good… no issues.”, thus expect him to be in.

Terrion Arnold (NP NP LP) illness, CB

A “stomach bug,” in medical terms, is likely an infectious gastroenteritis that can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. It typically resolves without any special treatment such as antibiotics. In rare cases, similar symptoms can be due to appendicitis, so glad that’s not the problem here.

With gastroenteritis, dehydration is common, so Arnold will need to make sure he is staying well-hydrated as he heads into the dry desert. I’m currently in Arizona, where the daytime temperatures are a toasty 90-100 degrees, although the climate will be significantly more reasonable in the hotel and stadium.

The finger was confirmed to be a simple dislocation. Sometimes, dislocations can result in fractures or other complications that require surgery, so good he avoided that.

A simple dislocation typically heals within 3-6 weeks and can be protected with a splint or buddy tape while healing.

Amon-Ra St. Brown (FP FP FP) IN quad, WR

He had a definite left thigh contusion last game and possibly a mild muscle strain as well. With 3x FP, there is minimal concern of an aggravation.

Ennis Rakestraw (NP NP NP) OUT hamstring, CB

Rakestraw hurt his hamstring in pregame warm-ups before the Bucs game. With 3x NP, there is concern for a more severe strain. Whether he goes on IR or not this weekend will tell us a lot.

Marcus Davenport (FP FP FP) IN groin, DE

Good that the groin issue was nothing serious. Groin issues are often due to simple muscle strains.

Kerby Joseph (LP FP FP) IN back, S

Nice to see Joseph’s hamstring from last week never popped back up.

Isaiah Williams (LP LP LP) QUESTIONABLE abdomen, WR

Williams was out with an ab last week and it’s a good sign he got 3x LP this week. He’s likely an inactive not just because of the injury but because all the receivers ahead of him are healthy and Tim Patrick looked good last game.

Ifeatu Melifonwu (NP NP NP) OUT ankle, S

Hurt likely during the 2nd preseason game, Dan Campbell on Friday said he’s “progressing”. Having an entire week of NP suggests that he’s still not that close, though.


ARIZONA CARDINALS

Kelvin Beachum ( — LP NP) QUESTIONABLE hamstring, OT

This new hamstring injury during the week could be a major factor on Sunday. The NP on Friday likely means he’s out for the game.

Already without starting RT Jonah Williams, the Cardinals may be playing their 3rd-string RT. Another chance for Aidan Hutchinson to have a monster day.

Greg Dortch ( — — LP) Questionable hamstring, WR

This is the other hamstring that popped up during the week. Dortch has been a productive player this year with eight catches for 58 yards.

Dante Stills (LP LP LP) QUESTIONABLE shoulder, DT

Stills played 40% of snaps in Week 1 but missed Week 2.

Will Hernandez (FP FP FP) IN ankle, G
Xavier Weaver (FP FP FP) IN oblique, WR
Xavier Thomas ( — NP FP) IN non-injury-related, LB

Notables Unlisted

Jonah Williams RT starter on IR
Darius Robinson DE 1st round rookie on IR
Zay Jones WR suspended
BJ Ojulari DE on IR
Elijah Jones CB 3rd round rookie on IR
Kyler Murray was listed with a knee last week but is off the report this week. Whatever knee issue he had certainly didn’t limit him last Sunday.