The Detroit Lions continue to show resilience this season, but injuries remain a lingering concern. Thursday’s practice saw four players missing, with two of the most important starters — safety Kerby Joseph and left tackle Taylor Decker — still sidelined.
Decker and Joseph Battling Through Pain
Decker, who has been managing a shoulder injury, has barely practiced since the season opener. Despite the limited practice time, he’s remained in the starting lineup, anchoring an offensive line that has been nothing short of dominant in recent weeks. In fact, the Lions have gone three straight games without allowing a sack, a testament to both his leadership and toughness.
Joseph’s story is much the same. The All-Pro safety has been dealing with knee issues since training camp. Yet, he continues to find ways to make plays, already notching two interceptions through four games. Even after leaving last weekend’s matchup with the Browns due to knee pain, Joseph returned in the second half and helped lock down the defense.
Head coach Dan Campbell didn’t hold back in praising Decker earlier this week:
“I’m always impressed. Decker’s been laying it all out for us. We know he’s not fully healthy, but he finds a way to suit up and compete every week. That’s huge for us. He’s been playing really solid football, and now it’s just about getting his body right.”
Some Positives on the Injury Front
There were encouraging signs as well. Rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold participated for the second straight day after injuring his shoulder against the Browns. Depth corner and special teams contributor Khalil Dorsey, who missed Wednesday while in concussion protocol, also returned to the field.
Other Injury Concerns
Running back Sione Vaki and linebacker Zach Cunningham were both held out. Vaki has been dealing with a groin issue that dates back to Detroit’s Monday night victory in Baltimore. Cunningham, who showed up on the injury report last week, missed the Browns game with a hamstring injury.
To cover Cunningham’s absence, the Lions promoted Ty Summers from their practice squad. Summers, familiar with Detroit from last preseason, logged 16 games with the Giants last year. In the backfield, the team still has depth behind David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs with Jacob Saylors and Craig Reynolds available.
Looking Ahead
Injuries are never easy to manage, but the Lions have found ways to adapt. With stars like Decker and Joseph showing grit and younger players stepping up, Detroit remains firmly in the NFC race. The key will be managing health as the season grinds on — especially for veterans playing through pain.
