The Detroit Lions continued preparations for their Week 2 clash against the Chicago Bears at Ford Field with a mixed update on the injury front. While the team welcomed linebacker Jack Campbell back to practice, left tackle Taylor Decker was sidelined for the second consecutive day.
Decker’s Status Remains a Concern
Decker has been dealing with a shoulder issue that forced him out of both Wednesday’s and Thursday’s practice sessions. Despite the absence, the veteran lineman and the Lions coaching staff are maintaining optimism about his availability for Sunday.
“I’ve just got some things I’m working through, but hopefully I’ll be out there,” Decker told reporters earlier this week. Offensive coordinator John Morton doubled down on that outlook, adding, “We’re totally expecting Decker to play.”
The situation on the offensive line is made trickier with Jamarco Jones now on season-ending injured reserve and backup Dan Skipper slowed by knee tendonitis. Rookie Giovanni Manu has filled in at left tackle during practice, and while Morton hinted Manu would likely step in if needed, interior lineman Kayode Awosika has also been mentioned as a possible emergency option. Head coach Dan Campbell is expected to provide further clarity during his Friday press conference.
Limited Participants: Vaki, Nowaske
Rookie running back Sione Vaki continues to work back from a nagging hamstring injury. He’s logged two straight practices, a positive sign given how long the issue has lingered. Special teams coordinator Dave Fipp praised Vaki’s versatility, calling him a “powerful, explosive athlete” who can impact both return duties and coverage units once fully healthy.
Linebacker Trevor Nowaske, who sat out Week 1 with an elbow injury, has also practiced on back-to-back days. If cleared, his presence would boost both depth at linebacker and Detroit’s special teams rotation.
Campbell Returns, Secondary Getting Healthy
The best news of the day came with Campbell’s full return after missing Wednesday with an ankle issue. The 2023 first-rounder is a vital piece of Detroit’s defense, anchoring the middle of the field.
Meanwhile, cornerback Terrion Arnold (groin) and safety Daniel Thomas (hand) both practiced fully Thursday, signaling they should be ready for Sunday.
As kickoff approaches, Decker’s progress remains the biggest storyline. His availability could determine whether the Lions enter their divisional showdown at full strength or are forced to shuffle protection against a Bears defense eager to rebound.
