Tag: injury prognosis

Lions vs Packers: Final injury report medical analysis for the Week 14 matchup

Lions vs Packers: Final injury report medical analysis for the final injury report for both teams ahead of Week 14

The second (and not necessarily final) meeting of the Lions and Packers is an enormous game not just for 1st place in the division but also for the extremely valuable 1st seed bye in the NFC.

The NY Times playoff simulator estimates the Lions chances of the #1 seed at 84% with a win vs 40% with a loss. That’s a massive spread.

Defensive health is a problem for the Lions as they will be missing five defenders from last game: Levi Onwuzurike, DJ Reader, Josh Paschal, Malcolm Rodriguez (IR), and Mekhi Wingo (IR). In good news, they’ll be getting back Carlton Davis and Emmanuel Moseley.

On offense, the Lions starters are intact except for Taylor Decker who will miss a second straight game. Dan Skipper figures to start at LT again.

The Packers will be missing a couple key players in Jaire Alexander and Romeo Doubs. On the bright side, Jordan Love will be healthier than the first meeting when he had a groin injury.

DETROIT LIONS

Out – Taylor Decker LT, knee (NP NP NP)

A suspected right MCL and right high or medial ankle sprain from ten days ago will keep Decker out for a second straight game. He could be back for the next game which is eleven days away.

Out – DJ Reader DT, shoulder (NP NP NP)

Reader landed hard on an outstretched left shoulder which is concerning for a shoulder subluxation/dislocation. These can be played through with rehab but often require surgery down the line. There is no word on his diagnosis yet.

For reference, DeShon Elliott with the Lions in 2022 missed two games with a dislocated shoulder.

Brodric Martin, who only got two snaps in his first game back from IR on Thanksgiving, may see a big increase.

Out – Levi Onwuzurike DT, hamstring (NP NP NP)

Onwuzurike suffered a left hamstring strain on Thanksgiving. He has not been placed on IR suggesting it is not severe.

Out – Josh Paschal DE, knee (NP NP NP)

Paschal hurt his right knee last game. The diagnosis is uncertain but reports are that it isn’t serious.

In – Carlton Davis CB, knee (LP FP FP)

Davis had a non-contact injury to his left knee area ten days ago and missed Thanksgiving. I’m suspecting a mild strain to a muscle/tendon in his posterior knee. With him back, the secondary is at full-strength.

In – Emmanuel Moseley CB, hamstring (FP FP FP)

Moseley missed Thanksgiving due to a mild hamstring but is now ready to go. It will be interesting to see if he gets some snaps at CB for the first time this season.

IR STATUS UPDATE

Returning soon
• Alex Anzalone, left forearm fracture – Expect him around week 17-18.
• Kalif Raymond, left foot – Expect him by the start of the playoffs.

Uncertain return
• Jalen Reeves-Maybin, neck – He is eligible to return this game but did not have his 21-day practice window opened this week. This implies his timeline is at least three more weeks. A neck injury on IR is concerning for a spinal issue.
• Ennis Rakestraw, hamstring – Eligible to return December 22.
• Ifeatu Melifonwu, left finger – Eligible to return December 22.

Late playoffs at best
• Aidan Hutchinson, left tib/fib fracture – Expecting very limited action in Super Bowl.
• John Cominsky, MCL – Initial estimate projected a January return at earliest.
• Derrick Barnes, right MCL/PCL – Unlikely to be back.

Not expected to return
• Malcolm Rodriguez, right ACL
• Marcus Davenport, left elbow
• Kyle Peko, left pec
• Mekhi Wingo, right knee

GREEN BAY PACKERS

Out – Jaire Alexander CB (LP LP NP)

This starting CB missed the last 2 games with a PCL injury that has lingered for multiple weeks. He also missed the first meeting with the Lions. Resting until it’s fully healed is smart.

Out – Romeo Doubs WR (LP LP LP)

Doubs will miss his second straight game with a concussion. He has been productive with 34 catches for 483 yards this year which is second on the team behind Jayden Reed.

Out – Edgerrin Cooper LB, hamstring (NP NP NP)

This 2nd-round rookie missed the last two games with the hamstring. He has 2.5 sacks and 31 solo tackles on the year.

Out – Corey Ballentine CB, knee (NP NP NP)

Ballentine is mainly a special teams player.

In – Josh Jacobs RB, calf (LP LP LP)

Jacobs has 987 yards on the year which is 3rd most in the NFL, just ahead of Jahmyr Gibbs (973 yards).

In – Rasheed Walker OT, knee (LP LP FP)

This starting LT has played every game this year.

In – Josh Myers C, pec (LP LP FP)

Myers is the starting center and has played the last three games.

In – Elgton Jenkins OG, rest (NP LP LP)

Jenkins has started every game this year.

In – Isaiah McDuffie LB, ankle (LP LP FP)

McDuffie has started every game this year.

In – Colby Wooden DE, shoulder (LP LP LP)

Wooden is a part-time player along the defensive line with four solo tackles this year.

In – Kenny Clark NT, rest (LP LP FP)

In – John Fitzpatrick TE, back (LP FP FP)

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 post-week 12 medical report and analysis

Lions post-week 12 medical report and analysis for all the injured Detroit players

Aside from a possible long-term injury to Kalif Raymond, early indications are that the Lions had a fairly healthy game vs the Colts. There were some minor scares though which could still impact the Thanksgiving game.

The Lions released an estimated injury report on Monday due to the short week game on Thanksgiving. All the players below had a “No Practice (NP)” on Monday.

DJ Reader also had an NP due to an illness. Terrion Arnold returned to a “Full Practice” with his groin. Arnold hurt his groin during practice last week and missed the Colts game.

Dan Campbell on Monday stated: “There’s probably three of them that [might not play]… It’s going to come down to the wire. The good news is that most of these are not a long-term thing.” Campbell specifically mentioned Taylor Decker, Carlton Davis, Kalif Raymond, and Amon-Ra St. Brown as possibly missing the Thanksgiving game.

Here are the injuries along with suspected diagnoses.

Kalif Raymond – left foot or toe sprain 3q 7:41

Raymond awkwardly lands hard on his left foot with hyperextended toes. The concerns here include a Lisfranc or turf toe injury with a turf toe being preferable. There are 26 bones in the foot so a lot of other things are possible.

A Lisfranc injury is a sprain or fracture of the midfoot area. Even a mild Lisfranc can be a 4-8 week recovery. A severe Lisfranc can be a career changer as Lions fans have seen in the past with Kevin Jones and Ameer Abdullah.

Taylor Decker – right MCL & right ankle sprain 3q 6:00

Decker was rolled up on here. The right ankle externally rotated which can cause a high ankle sprain. The right knee also appeared to bend inward slightly causing an MCL sprain. He left the game but was able to return the next drive which suggests mild severity.

While there is no long-term concern, even a mild MCL or high ankle sprain can lead to missed games.

On the Monday report, Decker was listed only with a knee and not an ankle.

David Montgomery – mild right shoulder contusion 3q 4:32

A direct blow to the right shoulder caused Montgomery to exit the game and not return. He stated after the game that he could have played if necessary which suggests there was no significant damage to the shoulder. A contusion or AC joint sprain are possible.

Based on Montgomery’s postgame comments and body language, the expectation is that he will be playing on Thanksgiving.

Carlton Davis – left knee area strain 4q 10:18

The non-contact injury to the knee with a slight valgus (inward) buckling can be seen with ACL tears. We saw this on video last year with Emmanuel Moseley and Nate Sudfeld. Fortunately, early signs are that Davis does not have an ACL tear. Video showed the orthopedist performing the Lachman ACL test which he passed.

It’s unlikely he has any other significant knee ligament damage either. A meniscus tear is also unlikely but an MRI will be obtained to confirm.

I’m suspecting a strain of one of the muscles or tendons attaching to the posterior knee area. Early signs are that the injury is minor.

Amon-Ra St. Brown – knee

St. Brown is surprisingly listed on the Monday injury report with a knee injury. I reviewed the game video and nothing jumped out. He looked to have no issues during the game and played until the end of the 4th quarter. I’m not expecting anything serious at this point and think there is a good chance he will be available on Thanksgiving.

UPDATE: After his punt return in the 4th quarter, he had a slight limp and reached for the right lateral knee and upper calf area. Hopefully, it’s just a mild muscle strain or knee contusion. He finished the game without obvious issues.

 

 

Lions vs Colts: Wednesday injury report medical analysis

Lions vs Colts: Wednesday injury report medical analysis of the practice participation report for both teams

In their last game, the Lions lost Alex Anzalone for a few weeks due to a forearm fracture. Fortunately, the Wednesday report offers no other significant injuries coming out of the Jaguars game (see my postgame report for injury videos).

While the Colts injury report is short, they are hurting along the offensive line with two starters on IR, another starter who missed last game with a knee, and another starter with a new foot injury.

DETROIT LIONS

Estimated report since the team only had a walkthrough.

Sam LaPorta TE (shoulder – FP)

After missing one game with a left AC joint sprain, Dan Campbell stated on Wednesday that LaPorta is “questionable to above… it’s trending the right way”. While the FP is only an estimate, it strongly suggests LaPorta will be playing on Sunday.

Carlton Davis CB (thumb – 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 FP today confirms that there was no significant aggravation of the thumb and he’ll play vs the Colts.

Allen Robinson WR (Gameday Concussion Protocol Evaluation – FP)

Robinson hit his head late in the Jaguars game and was slow in getting up. The FP today would mean he was not diagnosed with a concussion and should be available on Sunday.

Shane Zylstra TE (neck – FP)

Zylstra left the Jaguars game late in the fourth quarter. The video did not show anything serious, but a neck listing is always concerning for a spinal issue. The FP today reassures that it’s not spinal and most likely just a soft tissue strain.

Emmanuel Moseley CB (pec – FP)

Moseley tore his pec in August and opened his 21-day practice window on November 6. Expect him to remain in the practice window through the weekend and moved to the active roster early next week before Thanksgiving.

NOTABLES

Ifeatu Melifonwu

Having yet to play this year, here is his timeline:
-August 17: Suspected Achilles tendonitis
-September 28: Placed on IR
-November 6: Practice window opened
-November 14: Finger injury showed up on injury report
-November 18: Activated off IR temporarily
-November 19: Back on IR presumably for the finger injury
-December 22: Eligible to return vs Bears

Brodric Martin

This second-year player suffered a right knee hyperextension on August 24 and has yet to play this year. As expected, he was activated to the roster on Tuesday from his IR practice window. That doesn’t mean he’s going to play this weekend though. It still depends on his overall physical/mental readiness and where the coaches view him on the depth chart.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

Estimated report since the team only had a walkthrough.

Bernhard Raimann LT (knee – NP)

This starting LT missed last game with an unspecified knee injury. The NP on Wednesday does not bode well for the weekend.

Braden Smith RT (foot – LP)

This starting RT has played every game this year but the foot is a new listing. Let’s see if he downgrades or upgrades over the week.

Tyquan Lewis DE (elbow – FP)

Lewis has not played in the last seven games while on IR. He had his 21-day practice window opened just today which makes it very unlikely he’ll play vs the Lions.

Michael Pittman WR (back – FP)

Pittman has been dealing with a back issue for a few weeks. He still played in their last game and should play again on Sunday. He has 35 catches for 412 yards on the year.

NOTABLES

Ryan Kelly, starting center, is on IR and has missed the last two games.

Will Fries, starting OG, is on IR and has missed the last six games.

What’s the outlook for Alex Anzalone and his forearm fracture?

Breaking down the medical outlook at prognosis for return for Lions LB Alex Anzalone after he broke his arm in Week 11

Alex Anzalone injured his left forearm on November 17, 2024, late in the 2nd quarter vs the Jaguars.

Diagnosis

Dan Campbell confirmed a left forearm fracture postgame. The forearm comprises two bones – radius and ulna. Either or both could have been broken.

Mechanism

Anzalone’s left forearm was forcibly trapped between 2 players. Being trapped created a leverage point causing the bone(s) to break.

Prognosis

Anzalone will likely have surgery using plate and screws to fix the bone(s) with an initial estimated recovery of 6-8 weeks as relayed by Dan Campbell. The bone(s) should be fully healed in that 6-8 week timeframe.

Long-term outlook

The forearm bones heal reliably well and there is unlikely to be any damage to the elbow or wrist joints based on the video. There is a small chance that the metal hardware can cause chronic pain and may need to be removed down the road. Overall, there are no long-term concerns for his arm or his level of play.

When can we expect a return to the field?

Anzalone will almost certainly be back for the playoffs with a good chance of being available for the final 1-2 regular season games. A six-week timeline would have him play in the second-to-last regular season game on Monday Night Football, December 30, vs the 49ers. The final regular season game is January 5 vs the Vikings.

Returning earlier than six weeks is a realistic possibility also. In 2023, Dallas Goedert of the Eagles had a similar-looking forearm fracture and returned in five weeks with a protective brace. An extreme example is Thomas Davis in 2016 who returned in two weeks for the Super Bowl wearing a 3D-printed brace. Players will push the envelope for the Super Bowl which is something we may see later with Aidan Hutchinson.

Returning before the bone is fully healed carries an increased risk of re-injury. This may have happened with Rob Gronkowski in 2013 when he returned in six weeks from a forearm fracture only to fracture it again two weeks later.

For the Lions, the priority is to have Anzalone healthy for the playoffs, so I expect them to play it safe and have him return around the 6-8 week mark when the bone is fully healed.

As with all injuries, return to play depends on factors beyond health including game importance, player importance, and quality of backups. If the playoff seedings are already locked in, Anzalone might see some extra time off.

Impact on team

The Lions will certainly miss this starting linebacker on the field. He is the fastest defender among the front seven with good coverage ability and the speed to contain mobile QB’s.

While Anzalone’s injury will hurt the team now, it may actually help the team later. As Anzalone expressed on X, a silver lining of an arm injury is that he will come back with “fresh legs”.

When he returns, the forearm may not be as strong, but the rest of his body will be healthier, stronger, and faster than it is now. Anzalone’s injury will weaken the team over the next few weeks, but will likely strengthen the team during the playoffs.

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.

Lions post-Week 10 injury report and medical analysis

Lions post-Week 10 injury report and medical analysis after the win in Houston and getting ready for Week 11 and the Jaguars

I just returned from Houston where I voluntarily and eagerly overdosed on smoked brisket and Tex-Mex fajitas. Conversely, I involuntarily and begrudgingly overdosed on watching interceptions. At least the final result was a panacea.

Other notes from the stadium:

  • The Texans Battle Red helmets looked fantastic with the mirror red finish. The Lions silver helmets look much shinier and sparkly in person than they do on TV. With the Lions blueberries, this could have been a gorgeous color rush game but alas.
  • The roof was open for only the second time since 2021 which afforded a nice view of the moon and the fireworks. Fortunately, there was not even a hint of wind as that could easily have changed the outcome of the game with how tight Jake Bates’ field goals were to the uprights.
  • Credit to the Texans fans for being raucous all game and the Lions fans for bringing the heat in the fourth quarter. It was an excellent Sunday night atmosphere all the way around.

The game was overall a very healthy one for the Lions. Nothing live at the game jumped out to me from an injury standpoint. There were some minor concerns upon TV review, but the initial injury report is reassuring. The main concern was Sam LaPorta and there is early good news with him.

DETROIT LIONS

Sam LaPorta TE (NP) shoulder

LaPorta suffered a left AC joint sprain. Dan Campbell on Wednesday called it “day-to-day”. If this was the playoffs or a significant regular season game, I would fully expect him to play. Since it’s not, I expect him to miss at least this Sunday vs the Jaguars. There is no long-term concern though.

Taylor Decker OT (LP) shoulder

Decker stated he had a rotator cuff strain in practice last week. He has a history of shoulder labrum surgery in 2017 to the same side. Fortunately, the signs are that this is a minor, short-term issue. Dan Campbell on Wednesday stated “I feel better about having Decker this week… I think he’s going to be able to make it”.

Malcolm Rodriguez LB (LP) ankle

After two straight weeks of NP’s, upgrading to an LP on Wednesday is a good sign that he may be ready to go after missing two games.

Brodric Martin DT (FP) knee

After being on IR all year with a right knee hyperextension, Martin had his 21-day practice window opened on October 30. Expect him to be out for the Jaguars game and moved to the active roster early next week.

Ifeatu Melifonwu S (FP) ankle

Coming off IR with a suspected Achilles tendonitis, Melifonwu’s practice window opened November 6. He’s very likely out on Sunday but should be moved to the active roster before Thanksgiving.

Emmanuel Moseley CB (FP) pec

Recovering from his torn pec in August, Moseley’s 21-day practice window opened November 6. Like Melifonwu, he’s also likely out this Sunday but will move to the active roster before Thanksgiving.

Za’Darius Smith DE (FP) personal

Smith got a personal bye week after the trade and should be raring to go this week.

NOTABLES

Graham Glasgow in the first drive vs the Texans landed on his head and got up shaking his head. This was not shown on TV but I noticed it at the game. Fortunately, there has been no concussion diagnosis.

Carlton Davis in the 3rd quarter got kneed hard in the back of the right lower leg and limped off the field. This was likely just a contusion as he returned to play. Direct impact to that area can lead to a much worse outcome as we saw with Aidan Hutchinson’s tib/fib.

Alim McNeill appeared to be having right TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain in the 3rd quarter. I reviewed video of the play as well as multiple previous plays of his and didn’t see any trauma to that area. Possibly, he just bit down hard and injured that joint. He was able to return to the game and should be fine going forward. Most TMJ pains will resolve on their own without significant treatment. Injecting the joint is an option to relieve pain and inflammation.

Terrion Arnold, on the Lions final defensive play, had his right ankle area banged a couple times which left him limping off the field. Good to see him unlisted which means it’s likely just a contusion.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

Trevor Lawrence QB (NP) left shoulder

Lawrence missed last game with a non-throwing AC joint sprain and will also miss the Lions game. Mac Jones was 14/22 for 111 yards last game vs the Vikings.

Tank Bigsby RB (NP) ankle

Bigsby is the Jaguars #1 RB this year with 519 yards. He has been having an ankle issue the past 2-3 weeks and aggravated it last game. With an NP, there is a good chance he’ll get some time off which would mean Travis Etienne Jr. (298 yards) likely takes the bulk of the carries.

Brian Thomas WR (LP) chest

Thomas, the Jaguars #1 WR, hurt his ribs two weeks ago but hasn’t missed a game. Expect him to play on Sunday.

NOTABLES

Christian Kirk, the Jaguars 2nd-leading WR, is on IR with a clavicle fracture suffered two weeks ago.

Here is the full report:

 

Lions Monday medical report after victory over Titans

Breaking down Detroit Lions injuries and medical outlooks from the Week 8 win over the Titans, including Malcolm Rodriguez and Jared Goff

For the Lions this week, déjà vu was a double-edged sword. After another blowout victory, the Lions unfortunately had an injury to another front-seven defensive player in Malcolm Rodriguez. The last time the Lions blew out a team (Cowboys), they lost Aidan Hutchinson and Kyle Peko.

The game was otherwise a healthy one — although you never want to see your QB limping. Fortunately, the injury to Jared Goff does not appear significant.

On Monday, Dan Campbell in his press conference was not asked and did not comment on any injuries in this game.

Here are the injuries I saw along with suspected diagnoses:

Malcolm Rodriguez (1q 12:57) left ankle sprain

On Rodrigo’s first play which was punt coverage, a Titans player crashed into him from the side which likely caused an eversion injury to his left ankle. Eversion injuries can cause high ankle sprains or medial ankle sprains.

He was taped up and returned to the game for one more play which was kickoff coverage. During that play which was his last, his ankle was clearly not stable as it gave out on him.

Immediately after the game, Dan Campbell tentatively stated: “I don’t think it’ll take the rest of the season.”

An update on Monday by @Schultz_Report provided significantly better-than-expected news in that it’s a only minor ankle sprain and he’s expected to miss just one game. That means he should be back for Sunday Night Football vs the Texans.

Jared Goff (1q 7:47) right low ankle sprain

Credit to the Fox broadcast for alerting us to the moment of this injury as it was almost imperceptible in real-time. In slow motion, you can see the right ankle suffer a mild inversion which can cause a low ankle sprain.

A low ankle sprain, if not severe, can be taped and played through. That’s what happened here as Goff returned with a tape job and didn’t miss any plays until garbage time.

Goff may be sore this week and may even have limited or no practice days, but he should play vs the Packers without significant limitations.

Kalif Raymond (4q 8:15) head trauma

After a monster day, Raymond had his head slammed onto the turf. He was holding his head with both hands briefly and was slow in getting up. There were no signs of fencing or loss of consciousness which would have definitively signaled a concussion.

While he didn’t return to the game for garbage time, he did pass the sideline concussion evaluation and seemed fine after the game. He’s not out-of-the-woods yet as delayed concussion symptoms are possible and generally require self-reporting. If we don’t hear anything in the next couple days, Raymond should be a full-go vs the Packers.

Could Aidan Hutchinson really return for the Super Bowl?

Could Aidan Hutchinson really return for the Super Bowl? Breaking down the medical outlook with Dr. Jimmy Liao

The Super Bowl is a long ways away, but Lions fans don’t often get the opportunity to dream like this so let’s do it. With the increasing chatter that Aidan Hutchinson might play in the Super Bowl, here are my thoughts.

Why might Hutchinson NOT play in the Super Bowl?

  • He will only be partway through his rehab and won’t be at full strength physically.
  • His effectiveness may be very limited and worse than his replacement.
  • Theoretically, he might be putting himself at increased injury risk.

Here are the reasons why Hutchinson WILL play in the Super Bowl

  • All indications suggest an uncomplicated tib/fib fracture that doesn’t affect the ankle or knee joints. Healing should be relatively straightforward. The reported estimated timeline is 4-6 months with the Super Bowl coming in at just under 4 months (17 weeks).
  • There is no way to quantify injury risk, so opinions will vary, but it is reasonable to believe that his injury risk over baseline will be minimal, if any. With the Super Bowl 17 weeks from the time of injury, the bone will almost certainly be well-healed by then in a young, healthy individual. Further injury to the bone should not be an issue. There will be atrophy and weakness of the legs being only partially into rehab, but whether the leg weakness would cause increased injury risk is far from definite.
  • Players will absolutely come back earlier than they are ready for the opportunity to play in a championship game. Some notable examples are Terrell Owens in 2005 who played in the Super Bowl seven weeks after an ankle fracture, Jaylen Waddle who was still hobbling from a similar ankle fracture in the 2021 college national championship game, and Philip Rivers who played with a torn ACL in a conference championship game.
  • Even if there is an increased risk of injury, many if not most will accept the risk for a possible once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a Super Bowl. After all, players are already accustomed to being exposed to a high baseline risk of injury in every routine NFL game. A slight added risk will not be much of a deterrent.
  • Even if there is an aggravation of his injury or a compensation injury, Hutchinson will have seven months to recover before the next season starts. Yes, there is the risk of a long-term injury (Achilles, ACL, etc.) but that risk is ever-present and not necessarily increased by coming back early. The risk may even be decreased with less power in his legs.
  • Nobody in the NFL is 100% during the season, much less at the end of the season. Players are all dealing with physical ailments and weaknesses. Expecting Hutchinson to wait until he is at full strength isn’t a reality or a necessity.

Here are the reasons why the Lions will open a roster spot and let Hutchinson play in the Super Bowl

  • Hutchinson is one of the most important players on the team going forward – arguably the second most important player behind Jared Goff. The Lions invested a #2 overall pick in him, and he has quickly lived up to that status. At his current pace, he could end up being one of the greatest to ever don a Lions uniform. Maintaining a good relationship with this level of player is important, and that means giving him the opportunity to play in the Super Bowl.
  • Hutchinson has a long recovery ahead of him and having a Super-sized pot of gold at the end of the rainbow will be excellent for his mental health. He’ll still be able to feel like he is a part of this year’s team. Maintaining positive mental health should always be a major factor in any player decision.
  • Even if the Lions don’t think he’ll be effective physically, he could still make a difference as a decoy or distraction to the opposing offense. The opponent won’t know his physical status so they may expend resources to double team him or chip him even if he doesn’t deserve it.

Bottom Line

Unless there is a setback in his recovery, expect Hutchinson to play in the Super Bowl. Expectations for his performance should be tempered, though, as he will still be early in his recovery, and it will likely be his first game back.

During the game, Hutchinson’s strength, burst, quickness, and stamina will be limited, and he won’t play his usual 90% of snaps. Hopefully he makes a big impact, but even if he doesn’t, his appearance will still be an uplifting result with long-term benefits for the team and the player.

Aidan Hutchinson leg injury: Medical analysis and outlook

Aidan Hutchinson leg injury: Medical analysis and outlook from Dr. Jimmy Liao

On October 13, 2024, the Lions lost their most important defensive player in Aidan Hutchinson. Video is consistent with a left tibia and fibula fracture (tib/fib).

The mechanism of this injury can be due to a leg whip action which is what happened here. In this case, Hutchinson’s left leg whipped around and impacted Alim McNeill’s tibia.

Remarkably, this is not the first time a collision of McNeill and Hutchinson at the QB has caused a significant injury. Last year in week 13 vs the Saints, Hutchinson’s left leg also whipped around and hit McNeill in the knee spraining McNeill’s MCL.

McNeill was subsequently placed on IR and missed four games while Hutchinson avoided injury during that incident.

If you compare the two videos, they are eerily almost identical. Warning: graphic.

Should Hutchinson do anything differently in the future?

Given that this dangerous leg whip mechanism has occurred at least twice, it would be a good idea for Hutchinson and the Lions to do a thorough film review to see how often it is happening compared to other elite edge rushers.

Regardless of the findings, it is worth looking into adjusting his technique at the point of contact with the QB to stop that leg from whipping around.

Other cases of tib/fib fractures

MMA fans have seen similar leg whip (kicking) mechanisms cause tib/fib fractures to Anderson Silva, Conor McGregor, and Chris Weidman.

In basketball, this injury has been seen with Paul George and Kevin Ware.

A recent example that University of Michigan fans are aware of is OL Zak Zinter who suffered a tib/fib in November 2023 while at Michigan. He was still drafted in the 3rd round and was available for the start of this season. His mechanism of injury was that of a player falling onto his leg causing a leverage point on his hard knee brace.

Michigan fans may also vividly remember RB Fitzgerald Toussaint who had a tib/fib fracture in November 2012. He was able to return for the start of the next season.

Other NFL examples include WR Tyler Lockett who in December 2016 had a compound tib/fib fracture which means the skin was lacerated by the bone. He was able to return for the start of next season.

In September 2021, OL Nick Gates had a tib/fib fracture that required multiple surgeries due to setbacks. He returned in October of 2022.

In November 2018, QB Alex Smith suffered an infected tib/fib fracture that led to a well-documented, arduous recovery. He did not return to play until October 2020.

Early reports for Hutchinson

  • Multiple reports state that it is not a compound (open) fracture.
  • Hutchinson has already had surgery. Emergent surgery was expected so no surprise there.
  • There is a report from Nolan Bianchi and Richard Silva of the Detroit News in which a source says there is a chance he could return for the Super Bowl on February 9, 2025.

What do these early reports mean?

  • The fact that this was not a compound fracture is excellent early news. A compound (open) fracture is where the broken bone lacerates the skin. The skin wound carries a risk of infection which can dramatically complicate things as evidenced by Alex Smith.
  • With talk of a chance of return for the Super Bowl, that implies that there were no immediate complications such as nerve damage or vascular (blood vessel) damage.
  • There is a small chance of compartment syndrome developing in the next couple days. The doctors will be keeping a close eye on this because it is a medical emergency. Compartment syndrome is when severe swelling of the calf cuts off blood flow thus damaging the leg.

OUTLOOK

The typical timeline for an uncomplicated tib/fib fracture is 6-9 months which means there is a very good chance Hutchinson will be ready in plenty of time for training camp.

The Super Bowl, which is less than 4 months away, apparently is not ruled out yet. Having a same-season target is fantastic for a player’s mental health regardless of if he makes it back or not.

While the injury looks gruesome, these bones tend to heal very well. Importantly, the injury does not appear to involve the ankle or knee joint thus the important cartilage and ligaments of those joints are preserved. If there is no joint involvement, the long-term ramifications of the injury are minimized.

There may be a mental hurdle to overcome since this is at least the second time he has had a violent, leg-whip collision at the QB. Hutchinson may spend some time refining his technique to build confidence and avoid a recurrence in the future.

If Hutchinson can overcome the mental obstacles and possibly tweak his technique, expect him to return to his elite form sometime in 2025 with no long-term concerns.