Lions Lose Yet Another Defensive Player to Injury, as Star DL Exits Game

The Detroit Lions had 13 defensive players on injured reserve ahead of the Thursday night matchup against the Green Bay Packers. The injury tally continued as Lions defensive lineman Alim McNeill exited the game to be evaluated for a concussion before the end of the first quarter.

However, McNeill returned to the game after heading to the locker room for a few minutes.

McNeill was caught in a scrum on just the fourth defensive play of the night and was pulled from the game by officials. The Lions announced the defensive lineman underwent concussion protocols but eventually returned to the game at the start of the second quarter.

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Detroit fans can breathe following the latest update on McNeill’s return from the locker room. McNeill is one of the few players the Lions can simply not afford to lose.

Additionally, guard Kevin Zeitler exited the game and was taken to the blue tent. On Wednesday, the Lions ruled out left tackle Taylor Decker and defensive linemen DJ Reader, Josh Paschal, and Levi Onwuzurike.

The Lions entered the divisional showdown short 12 defenders in the front seven, including: Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, Paschal, Reader, Onwuzurike, John Cominsky, Mekhi Wingo, Kyle Peko, Derrick Barnes, Alex Anzalone, Jalen Reeves-Maybin and Malcolm Rodriguez.

Only Reader, Paschal, and Onwuzurike are the three defensive players not to land on injured reserve.

Despite the unprecedented number of injuries to the defense, the unit has consistently played well throughout the 2024 campaign. It’s a combination of players willing to step up as well as defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn’s ability to place said players in the right positions.

Going up against the Packers will be a big test for the unit, especially avoiding any drop-off against the explosive Green Bay offense. With all the moving parts and new faces, the defense will have to do its best to work as a cohesive unit.

However, Glenn has done a stellar job of putting players in a position to thrive and it is expected that he will do the same against the Packers.

Although each injury is a setback for Detroit, the Lions have pressed on and have emerged as an elite team in the NFC. The Lions are currently 11-1 and hope to add another win Thursday night with a victory over the Packers.

Detroit currently leads Green Bay 10-0 in the second quarter.

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