
The Detroit Lions’ defense is about to get a serious upgrade. After missing nearly 10 months recovering from a torn ACL, defensive tackle Alim McNeill is officially expected to make his season debut in the Lions’ Week 7 Monday Night Football clash against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
McNeill sustained his knee injury in December 2024 during a game against Buffalo, ending what had been a breakout campaign. He spent the offseason grinding through rehab and recently rejoined practice under the team’s 21-day evaluation window. According to head coach Dan Campbell, McNeill looks ready to go.
“Barring something happening this week, Alim’s freakin’ playing, man,” Campbell told reporters. “He’s looked strong, confident, and ready to roll.”
McNeill himself echoed that optimism, saying he’s “100 percent locked in and ready to go,” adding that his confidence and timing are back after months of conditioning and strength work.
While he’s officially listed as questionable on the injury report, all signs point toward the Lions activating him for the Monday night matchup. The coaching staff plans to ease him back with a limited workload—roughly 20 to 25 snaps—as he rebuilds game endurance.
The timing couldn’t be better for Detroit. The Lions’ defensive front has battled through injuries and inconsistency, especially in run defense. McNeill’s return bolsters the unit’s depth and should help stabilize the interior line, a key factor against Tampa Bay’s offense led by Baker Mayfield.
In 2024, McNeill was quietly one of the Lions’ most impactful defenders before his injury. He recorded 5.0 sacks, 34 tackles, and 7 tackles for loss, anchoring the middle with power and athleticism. His ability to collapse the pocket from inside often freed up opportunities for edge rushers Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston.
Facing a Buccaneers team that has struggled to establish a consistent running game, McNeill’s presence could be a difference-maker. Expect Detroit to rotate him strategically on early downs and in key passing situations, maximizing his impact while protecting his knee.
If McNeill returns to form, the Lions’ defense could regain its dominant early-season identity. With several defensive backs still sidelined, controlling the trenches will be crucial—and Alim McNeill’s comeback could be the spark Detroit needs to stay atop the NFC North race.