The San Francisco 49ers might face a familiar opponent when hosting the Detroit Lions in Glendale, California.
On December 28, the Lions announced two roster updates, including the signing of LB Kwon Alexander to their practice squad.
“#Lions announce roster moves: Signed DB Morice Norris to the Active Roster from the Practice Squad. Signed LB Kwon Alexander to the Practice Squad,” the Lions’ official X account shared.
Alexander started two games for Detroit earlier in December, joining the team to address defensive injuries. However, he was released after their 48-42 Week 15 loss to the Buffalo Bills.
While Alexander’s activation for the 49ers game isn’t certain, his familiarity with Niners HC Kyle Shanahan adds intrigue, potentially offering insights about his former team.
Although Alexander didn’t play under current DC Nick Sorensen, he did line up alongside LB Fred Warner and DE Nick Bosa during his San Francisco tenure.
BAlexander’s Post-49ers Journey
Injuries have hampered Alexander’s career. His first four seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were promising, highlighted by a 2017 Pro Bowl selection. A 2018 ACL tear limited him to six games.
The 49ers signed Alexander in 2019 on a four-year, $54 million deal, but the move fell short as he played only 15 games before being traded to the New Orleans Saints mid-2020.
Alexander has since struggled to find a long-term team, with brief stints on the New York Jets, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Denver Broncos. Detroit, dealing with defensive injuries, has opted to keep him as a depth option.
The Lions may not activate Alexander against San Francisco but could retain him for a playoff run.
Dan Campbell Reflects on 49ers Rematch
In the 2024 NFC Championship, the 49ers overcame a 17-point deficit to defeat the Lions, a loss still vivid for Detroit HC Dan Campbell.
“Just like my second year in the league, we go to the Super Bowl and get smashed by Baltimore,” Campbell told ESPN. “I won’t forget that. Losses stick with you. You learn most from them, unfortunately.”
Despite January’s setback, the Lions appear playoff-ready with a 13-2 record. Wins over the 49ers and Minnesota Vikings could secure the NFC’s No. 1 seed.
San Francisco, however, hopes to repeat their NFC Championship upset and derail Detroit’s postseason aspirations.
