The Detroit Lions returned to the practice field Sunday, only to find themselves battling more than just upcoming opponents. The practice session was heavily impacted by a wave of injuries, with over a dozen players absent, leaving head coach Dan Campbell to navigate a tricky preseason road.
Following their recent preseason matchup against the New York Giants, Campbell confirmed that edge rusher Nate Lynn and offensive tackle Connor Galvin would be lost for the season due to injuries sustained during the game. It’s the kind of news that makes you wince, especially when you’re hoping to build momentum heading into the season.
Quarterback Hendon Hooker and wide receiver Antoine Green joined the Detroit Lions injury list after both suffered concussions during the contest. Neither player suited up for practice on Sunday, raising serious doubts about their availability for the Lions’ next challenge against the Kansas City Chiefs. Campbell wasn’t exactly overflowing with optimism, stating, “It’s looking less like we will have (Hooker) in practice this week until Friday, getting ready for the Chiefs.”
But the bad news didn’t stop there. Wide receiver Daurice Fountain was also MIA, with his injury status remaining as clear as mud. Tight end Sam LaPorta, nursing a hamstring issue, was also sidelined, though he was spotted working with trainers ahead of practice, offering a sliver of hope that he might return soon.
The offensive line, often the unsung heroes of any football team, wasn’t spared from the injury bug either. Taylor Decker and Kevin Zeitler were both missing in action, with Zeitler dealing with a shoulder injury that continues to keep him off the field. Defensive players Alim McNeill and Levi Onwuzurike were also held out, adding to the growing list of concerns.
The linebacker corps took a hit too, with Malcolm Rodriguez and Malik Jefferson missing practice. In the secondary, rookie Morice Norris is dealing with a minor hamstring injury, while defensive tackle DJ Reader remains on the PUP list, a less-than-ideal situation for a team looking to solidify its defensive front.
Summary of Detroit Lions Absences
- EDGE Nate Lynn: placed on injured reserve
- OL Connor Galvin: released with an injury settlement
- QB Hendon Hooker: concussion
- WR Antoine Green: concussion
- WR Daurice Fountain: new injury
- TE Sam LaPorta: remains out
- LT Taylor Decker: new injury
- RG Kevin Zeitler: shoulder, remains out
- G Christian Mahogany: remains on NFI, illness
- DT DJ Reader: remains on PUP
- DT Alim McNeill: new injury
- DL Levi Onwuzurike: knee, new injury
- LB Malcolm Rodriguez: remains out
- LB Malik Jefferson: new injury
- DB Morice Norris: hamstring, new injury
With the Detroit Lions gearing up for their next game, the injury report is a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead. Building depth and managing the health of key players will be crucial if the Lions hope to tackle the regular season with anything resembling confidence.
