Tag: Ifeatu Melifonwu

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.

 

 

Will Ifeatu Melifonwu play this week? Injury updates for Lions DB

Lions safety Ifeatu Melifonwu is dealing with a hand injury. Here are the latest updates ahead of Week 16

Will Lions safety Ifeatu Melifonwu make his 2024 season debut in Week 16 against the Chicago Bears?

The oft-injured safety has spent the entire season on the Lions’ injured reserve list, with two separate stints dating back to the beginning of the season. After suffering an ankle/heel injury in the second preseason game, Melifonwu was sidelined until November. The Lions designated the fourth-year safety for return and activated him, only to subsequently place him back on I.R. the very next day with a hand injury.

Melifonwu has once again been designated to return and practiced this week, ahead of Sunday’s matchup with the Bears in Chicago. Based on what head coach Dan Campbell said this week, it seems unlikely we’ll see Melifonwu on Sunday.

Ifeatu Melifonwu injury update

Melifonwu was listed as a full participant in practice on both Wednesday and Thursday. He remains on the team’s I.R. as of Friday’s practice.

Here’s what Campbell said prior to Friday’s practice about Melifonwu:

 “Yeah, I mean, so much of this was about getting his legs back under him, getting him comfortable this week. We’re not closed to that; I’m not closed to that, I just – he’s gotten a little better every day and he’ll go out there today and practice and we’re working him in some stuff – just see where he’s at. But it’s good to have him back and it’s good to see him out there, functioning, working the position, and so that’s a good thing.”

He is officially listed as questionable on the Lions’ final injury status report.

How long will Melifonwu be out?

With his 21-day activation window opening on Monday, the Lions could keep Melifownu shelved until the Week 18 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, if needed. He is eligible to be activated at any time.

Lions safety depth chart

Melifonwu was expected to be the third safety, playing in packages behind starters Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph. In training camp and preseason, Melifonwu played primarily in the box and against offensive sets with multiple tight ends.

That role hasn’t really been used much by the Lions in the 2024 season. Linebacker Ezekiel Turner has served in that sort of capacity for the last two weeks. The only reserve safety on Detroit’s active roster is Brandon Joseph, who plays primarily on special teams. Undrafted rookie Loren Strickland is on the team’s practice squad.

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The Lions injury report from Thursday shows considerable improvement

The Lions injury report from Thursday shows considerable improvement, with several players returning after missing Wednesday’s session

It’s still not nearly as clean as hoped for, but the Detroit Lions practice participation report for Thursday’s session looks a lot more promising than Wednesday’s first edition.

After nine players were idle on the first practice of Week 16, all but three returned in some capacity to Thursday’s practice. Two of the three who remained out are starting offensive linemen, however.

Left guard Graham Glasgow and center Frank Ragnow both remain sidelined. Glasgow is listed with a knee injury, while Ragnow has a back malady. The injury status could help explain the substandard performances from both in the Week 15 loss to Buffalo.

The other player remaining out is running back David Montgomery, who is expected to miss the rest of the season with an MCL injury. Montgomery and the Lions are still in the evaluation process on how to handle his torn knee ligament.

Safety Brian Branch upgraded from out with a listed calf issue on Wednesdsay to full participant on Thursday.

Five players who rested on Wednesday returned in full:

LT Taylor Decker
WR Amon-Ra St. Brown
DT DJ Reader
RG Kevin Zeitler
EDGE Za’Darius Smith

It was also the first sighting of LB Jalen Reeves-Maybin. He’s been on I.R. for several weeks but has started his 21-day activation window. Reeves-Maybin, a key special teams player as well as subpackage LB, was limited with his neck injury.

Another player designated to return from I.R., safety Ifeatu Melifonwu made it through a second straight practice as a full participant. He’s missed the entire season with an ankle injury and a subsequent hand injury that forced the Lions to activate him — only to immediately place him back on I.R. His second activation window began on Monday.

 

 

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 DB Ifeatu Melifonwu ‘clock starting’, need to get him running around

Dan Campbell says he sees Ifeatu Melifonwu ‘clock starting’, needs to get him running around

The Lions have been dealt blow after blow with injuries in recent weeks, but one injured player could soon be returning to help make a playoff push.

Head coach Dan Campbell was asked about the status of safety Ifeatu Melifonwu Monday and if he’ll be back soon. Melifonwu is eligible to return to practice and be activated this week.

Campbell said: “I see his clock starting, and so then it’s ‘Well, OK, that’s good.’ We get him out at practice, do we think he could help us as early as Sunday? I don’t know that right now, and I won’t until we get him out there running around a little bit.”

Campbell briefly mentioned Melifonwu as an option to fill at cornerback following the injuries to Carlton Davis and Khalil Dorsey. Campbell was also asked if Melifonwu could see time at linebacker.

“Yeah, tough to say,” Campbell said. “I mean he could, depending on if we’re talking about base downs, third downs, is there a place, a role, is it – I wouldn’t shut that down. I think wherever we feel like he can help, we’re open to it.”

Melifonwu has yet to appear in a game this season due to multiple injuries. After missing the first three games with an ankle injury, Melifonwu was placed on injured reserve, only to suffer another injury in November and go right back on injured reserve.

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.

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

Ifeatu Melifonwu back on Lions injured reserve a day after being activated

The Lions placed safety Ifeatu Melifonwu back on injured reserve a day after being activated

No, it’s not a misprint. The Detroit Lions did indeed place safety Ifeatu Melifonwu on injured reserve on Tuesday.

Yes, it’s also true the Lions activated Melifonwu from I.R. on Monday.

What gives?

Melifonwu is back on I.R. for at least four more weeks with a finger injury. He had previously missed all of the 2024 campaign through Week 11 with an ankle issue suffered in Detroit’s second preseason game. Melifonwu injured his finger in practice last week after already being designated to return from I.R.

As head coach Dan Campbell explained on Monday, Melifonwu was going to be out for more time than the end of his 21-day activation window, which was originally slated for after the Week 12 trip to Indianapolis. The oft-injured reserve safety is now out until at least Week 16.

Melifonwu is eligible to be activated from I.R. a second time, though the team has a limited number of activations and several other players (Brodric Martin, Emmanuel Moseley, John Cominsky, Jalen Reeves-Maybin) also slated to come back at some point.

Lions add defensive help to the active roster, place Anzalone on I.R.

The Lions added a veteran LB and activated (with an asterisk) Ifeatu Melifonwu, while placing Anzalone on I.R.

The Detroit Lions made some injury-forced roster moves on Monday. The most notable is placing linebacker Alex Anzalone on the injured reserve list a day after the defensive captain broke his forearm in the team’s blowout win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Replacing Anzalone on the active roster will be safety Ifeatu Melifonwu, who was activated off injured reserve. That activation probably deserves an asterisk, as Melifonwu is poised to be sidelined again with a new finger injury suffered last week in practice.

“Well, look, because this is going to come up anyway, he had something come up and he’s not going to be – he won’t be ready for a while,” Campbell said of Melifonwu. “He’s not going to be ready for a while.”

The Lions also added veteran linebacker David Long to the practice squad. Long was recently released by the Miami Dolphins after losing his role in their defense.

 

Lions vs Jaguars: Final injury report and medical analysis

Lions vs Jaguars: Final injury report and medical analysis for the Week 11 matchup in Detroit

For the Detroit Lions who are mathematically at >99% to make the playoffs, the balance of playing vs resting players is rightfully getting nudged towards the side that helps with playoff performance.

With an 8-1 record, the Lions have earned the opportunity to rest minor playable injuries and employ selective load management. That strategy may have been a factor in the decision to sideline Taylor Decker last week and Sam LaPorta this week. There is still the extremely valuable #1 seed bye up for grabs so keeping the foot on the regular season gas does have playoff benefits.

The Jaguars are on the opposite side of the mathematical spectrum with a <1% chance of making the playoffs. But they may end up with the same answers as the Lions to the “play vs rest” question.

While the Lions are focusing on the 2025 playoffs, the Jaguars are focusing on the 2026 playoffs. Key long-term players like Trevor Lawrence, who is considering season-ending AC joint surgery, may decide to sacrifice the present for a better future.

During the week, the Lions had a new minor injury to Carlton Davis who broke his thumb, and an upgrade with Taylor Decker’s shoulder. Overall, the Lions active roster is in good health.

The Jaguars have multiple offensive skill players dealing with injuries including their #1 QB, #1 RB, and #1-3 WR’s. The team’s injury report is lengthy with many limited practices, but most of the players will be in.

DETROIT LIONS

Carlton Davis CB (hand UL LP FP – In)

Davis said he broke his thumb in practice but will play through with a cast. No concerns here, but a repeat 2-interception performance will be more challenging.

Ben Niemann LB (ankle UL UL NP – Questionable)

Presumably, Niemann hurt his ankle in practice. An NP on Friday means he’s likely out on Sunday. He played 19% of defensive snaps last game which was 4th amongst linebackers.

Sam LaPorta TE (shoulder NP NP NP – Out)

LaPorta suffered a left AC joint sprain last game which Dan Campbell has called “day-to-day”. Letting him rest is a good idea not just for the AC joint but in case of any residuals from his previous injuries this year:
• hamstring (preseason)
• right low ankle sprain (week 3)
• possible right knee hyperextension (week 7)

Taylor Decker OT (shoulder LP FP FP – In)

Decker suffered a rotator cuff strain in practice last week and missed the last game. Good news that it is minor and he’ll be playing on Sunday.

Malcolm Rodriguez LB (ankle LP FP FP – In)

After missing two games with a left ankle sprain, Rodriguez is ready to go.

Brodric Martin DT (knee FP FP FP – Out)

After a right knee hyperextension in preseason, Martin had his 21-day practice window opened on October 30. Expect him to be moved to the active roster next week by November 20.

Ifeatu Melifonwu S (ankle/finger FP LP NP – Out)

The downgrade is a concern. Hopefully, it is only related to the finger injury and not an aggravation of a suspected Achilles tendonitis. Defensive backs can play through finger dislocations or fractures (see Carlton Davis) so the finger shouldn’t impact his timeline.

Melifonwu’s practice window opened November 6 which means he should move to the active roster by November 27, the day before Thanksgiving.

Emmanuel Moseley CB (pec FP FP FP – Out)

Recovering from his torn pec in August, Moseley’s 21-day practice window opened November 6. Like Melifonwu, Moseley should move to the active roster before Thanksgiving.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

Trevor Lawrence QB (shoulder NP NP NP – Out)

A left, non-throwing, AC joint sprain will keep the Jaguars’ starting QB out for a second straight game. He may even decide to call it a season and get AC joint surgery. Mac Jones, who was 14/22 for 111 yards last week in a 12-7 loss to the Vikings, will start again.

Tank Bigsby RB (ankle NP NP NP – Out)

The Jaguars #1 RB with 519 yards has been dealing with an ankle issue for 2-3 weeks and aggravated it last game. Expect Travis Etienne, who has 298 yards, to get the bulk of the carries.

Maason Smith DT (ankle LP LP LP – Questionable)

This 2nd-round rookie has missed the last four games.

Keilan Robinson RB (toe FP FP FP – Questionable)

With 3x FP, this 5th-round rookie should be available, but he has yet to play this year.

Ezra Cleveland LG (ankle LP LP LP – Questionable)

This starting LG missed the last two games but might be ready to return this Sunday.

Brian Thomas WR (chest LP LP LP – In)

The Jaguars #1 WR with 607 yards hurt his ribs two weeks ago but has been playing through. He only had 2 catches for 12 yards last game though.

Gabe Davis WR (shoulder LP LP LP – In)

Davis hurt his shoulder three weeks ago but did return to play last week with 1 catch for 19 yards. He is the team’s 4th-leading receiver with 236 yards on the year.

Josh Hines-Allen DE (shoulder LP LP LP – In)

This star pass-rusher has five sacks on the year.

Blake Hance OL (knee LP LP LP – In)

Hance started last game at LG and may start again if Ezra Cleveland can’t go.

Brandon Scherff RG (knee LP LP LP – In)

This starting RG has not missed a game this year.

D’Ernest Johnson RB (hamstring LP LP LP – In)

Johnson is 3rd on the team with 114 rushing yards this year.

Tyson Campbell CB (shoulder LP LP LP – In)

Campbell missed a few games with a hamstring earlier in the year but has started the last four games.

Daniel Thomas S (hamstring LP LP LP – In)

This backup has not played a defensive snap the past four games.

NOTABLES

Christian Kirk, the Jaguars 2nd-leading WR, was placed on IR two weeks ago with a broken clavicle.