With injuries piling up along the offensive line, the Detroit Lions have brought in reinforcements. The team announced the addition of Jack Conley, Chris Hubbard, and Netane Muti to their practice squad as starters Taylor Decker and Penei Sewell continue to manage shoulder issues, while swing tackle Dan Skipper deals with a back injury.
Head coach Dan Campbell provided a positive update on the injured linemen, saying,
“Nothing sounds long term, which is good news. It’s just a matter of whether they’ll be able to practice or play this week.”
Even though the outlook for Decker and Sewell appears encouraging, general manager Brad Holmes is making sure the team has enough depth up front — a crucial move as Detroit prepares for the second half of the season.
Jack Conley: Developmental Prospect With Upside
At just 24 years old, Jack Conley brings intriguing potential to Detroit’s O-line room. The 6-foot-7, 330-pound former Boston College lineman possesses great size, athletic range, and the tools to thrive in a zone-blocking scheme.
While Conley’s college film shows flashes of talent—highlighted by solid hand placement and quick footwork—he’s still developing consistency in leverage and pad control. Fortunately, he’ll be working under Hank Fraley, Detroit’s respected offensive line coach, known for maximizing young players’ potential.
Chris Hubbard & Netane Muti: Experience Meets Power
The most seasoned of the trio, Chris Hubbard, brings a wealth of experience to Detroit’s depth chart. The 34-year-old veteran has logged over 100 career games and 61 starts, having suited up for the Steelers, Browns, Titans, 49ers, and Giants.
Hubbard’s peak came in 2018 with Cleveland, when he started all 16 games and helped solidify one of the league’s most improved offensive lines. Though injuries have slowed him in recent years, his experience and versatility as a swing tackle make him a valuable insurance policy and mentor for the younger linemen.
Meanwhile, Netane Muti brings power and familiarity. The 6-foot-3, 325-pound guard was originally drafted by the Denver Broncos and briefly played for Detroit in 2024 before landing on injured reserve. Known for his brute strength—highlighted by an eye-popping 44 reps on the bench press at the NFL Combine—Muti thrives in short-yardage situations and adds muscle to the Lions’ interior line.
What’s Next for Detroit
The Lions (5-3) will travel to face the Washington Commanders on November 9, hoping to rebound from a 27-24 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
Campbell praised Washington’s resilience under head coach Dan Quinn, saying,
“They’ve had their share of injuries, same as us. It’s about regrouping, cleaning things up, and finding a way to compete and get the win.”
For Detroit, minimizing self-inflicted wounds will be key after committing 10 penalties in their Week 9 loss. If they can tighten discipline and protect quarterback Jared Goff, the Lions are in good position to get back on track against a Commanders team missing rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.
