Despite their impressive 13-2 record entering Week 17, doubts linger over the Detroit Lions’ ability to maintain momentum due to mounting injuries. The Lions currently lead the league with the most players on injury reserve. While concerns are justified, encouraging developments have emerged.
The Lions made roster adjustments on Christmas Eve, hinting at improving health within the team.
Lions’ Roster Moves Signal Recovery
On Christmas Eve, the Lions adjusted their roster by waiving linebacker David Long and re-signing wide receiver Maurice Alexander to the practice squad.
Long joined the team in November after Alex Anzalone’s broken forearm during the November 17 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Long participated in five games, accumulating 70 defensive snaps, 58 special teams snaps, seven tackles, and one fumble recovery.
These transactions suggest the Lions’ injury concerns may be easing.
“If Long clears waivers, he could return to the practice squad,” stated Brad Berreman of SideLion Report on December 25. “Waiving him generally signals good news.”
Jeff Risdon of Lions Wire echoed this sentiment, noting that Long’s release reflects a healthier defense.
“In a sign of defensive improvement, the Lions waived veteran linebacker David Long,” Risdon commented in his Christmas Eve article.
Further Positive Developments for Lions
Linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin resumed practice on December 19, starting his 21-day activation window from injury reserve.
Addressing the media on December 23, head coach Dan Campbell discussed potential returns, including Reeves-Maybin, for Week 17 against the San Francisco 49ers.
“We’ll monitor Germ (Reeves-Maybin),” Campbell stated. “He’s a possible candidate for return. We gave him practice time last week and will continue this week to evaluate his condition.”
Anzalone is projected to return for the playoffs, with a 6 to 8-week recovery estimate. Campbell mentioned Anzalone’s progress but remained uncertain about his availability for the 49ers game. Anzalone can be activated immediately once fully healed.
“It’s close,” Campbell remarked regarding Anzalone’s return. “This week might be too soon, but it’s near.”
Hearing such updates about key linebackers offers optimism. The Lions’ linebackers have faced persistent injuries, contributing to their 48-42 loss to the Buffalo Bills without several core players.
