The Detroit Lions entered December as one of the NFL’s top teams, but injuries have decimated the NFC’s leading Super Bowl hopeful.
On Sunday alone, the team reportedly lost defensive tackle Alim McNeill for the season with an ACL tear and cornerback Carlton Davis for six weeks due to a broken jaw. Running back David Montgomery might also miss the remainder of the season with a torn MCL, while cornerback Khalil Dorsey reportedly fractured his leg.
These injuries add to a growing list of Lions already on injured reserve, including defensive ends Aidan Hutchinson, John Cominsky, and Marcus Davenport, linebackers Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Alex Anzalone, Malcolm Rodriguez, and Derrick Barnes, wide receiver Kalif Raymond, cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr., defensive tackles Mekhi Wingo and Kyle Peko, and safety Ifeatu Melifonwu, among others.
To stay competitive with a Super Bowl berth still in reach, the Lions will need to consider external options to reinforce their roster. Here are five players who could provide immediate help.
1. Add RB Latavius Murray to the 53-man roster
Buffalo Bills running back Latavius Murray (28) totaled 68 yards and a touchdown against the Broncos.
Murray ran for 300 yards and four touchdowns with Buffalo last season. If healthy, the Lions should bring him in right away. He’s the ideal complementary back to share snaps with Jahmyr Gibbs and contribute in critical January games.
2. Re-sign CB Jerry Jacobs to the 53-man roster
Former Lions starting cornerback Jerry Jacobs played for Detroit from 2021-23 and is readily available. With the secondary stretched thin, Jacobs’ familiarity with Aaron Glenn’s system and ability as a solid starter make this move an easy decision.
3. Add DT Lawrence Guy to the practice squad
Guy, an NFL veteran, could bolster Detroit’s defensive depth as the season winds down. While the Lions have internal options for McNeill’s absence, Guy’s Super Bowl experience with the Patriots makes him a valuable, versatile addition. Signing him would be a smart move.
4. Sign CB Patrick Peterson to the practice squad
A future Hall of Famer, Peterson hasn’t retired and is still available. He last played for the Steelers and could be a strong candidate to bolster Detroit’s playoff push. Signing him to the practice squad would give him time to get up to speed. Between Jacobs and Peterson, Detroit would gain much-needed secondary reinforcements.
5. Sign WR Odell Beckham Jr. to the practice squad
This move would be worth the gamble. With Montgomery’s absence weakening the run game, maximizing the passing attack will be crucial. Beckham could still provide explosive plays and veteran depth. If more injuries hit, having him ready would be invaluable. It’s a low-risk, high-reward option.
