The Detroit Lions faced the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field in Week 16, hoping for a change in injury fortunes. Fortunately, their luck seemed to improve, though the bar wasn’t set high.
Graham Glasgow was sidelined due to a knee injury, but beyond that, the Lions avoided further injuries after last week’s string of misfortunes. Glasgow, injured during the Bills game, didn’t practice this week, making his absence unsurprising.
Inactive players included running back David Montgomery (knee), linebacker Kwon Alexander, offensive linemen Gio Manu and Colby Sorsdal, and defensive linemen Brodric Martin and Jonah Williams.
njuries can strike at any moment, but initially, the Lions appeared to escape without any significant issues beyond routine soreness.
Last week, the Lions placed three defenders on IR — defensive tackle Alim McNeill, cornerback Carlton Davis III, and cornerback Khalil Dorsey. David Montgomery remains out with a knee injury. While Montgomery’s MCL injury initially seemed season-ending, there’s still hope for a return.
The Lions did get some positive news as defensive back Ifeatu Melifonwu returned from IR after dealing with finger and Achilles injuries. Linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin (neck) began his practice window this week but did not play.
Linebacker Trevor Nowaske, who missed the previous game with a concussion, was cleared to play.
Is this what a healthy Lions game looks like?
After weeks of relentless injuries, Detroit emerged from Sunday’s game largely intact. The full injury report will come later, but there were no immediate signs of serious injuries.
Considering the defensive losses this season, the Lions were overdue for some good fortune.
No Mid-Game Injury Reports – A Relief for Lions Fans
For Lions fans, the last few weeks brought dread whenever the team’s PR page on X posted an injury update. No slight to the social media team, but those updates often spelled bad news.
However, Sunday’s first half offered a break. For the first time in weeks, the Lions announced no injuries at halftime, a refreshing change from the injury-laden loss to the Bills.
Though the situation can shift rapidly, Lions fans would welcome more of the same in the weeks ahead.
Ifeatu Melifonwu Returns in Style
After a lengthy absence, Ifeatu Melifonwu’s return energized the Lions’ defense. On the Bears’ opening drive, Melifonwu pressured Caleb Williams on a blitz, forcing a hurried throw.
Melifonwu battled an Achilles injury for much of the season, followed by a finger issue. He missed 14 games but rejoined practice this week, eager to contribute.
Lions on Injured Reserve
BThe Lions’ IR list includes key names: Aidan Hutchinson (leg), Marcus Davenport (triceps), Derrick Barnes (knee), Alex Anzalone (forearm), Malcolm Rodriguez (knee), Mekhi Wingo (knee), Ennis Rakestraw (hamstring), Kalif Raymond (foot), John Cominsky (knee), and Kyle Peko (pectoral).
Detroit hopes to recover some of these players before the playoffs. Anzalone, out with a broken arm, may return soon, while Hutchinson eyes a potential Super Bowl comeback if the Lions make it that far.
