The Detroit Lions had a fitting soundtrack for Wednesday’s practice at the Meijer Performance Center: Mark Morrison’s classic “Return of the Mack”. The choice was intentional, as standout defensive tackle Alim McNeill stepped back onto the practice field for the first time since tearing his right ACL in December.
McNeill admitted the moment lifted his spirits.
“That was a good little touch. I didn’t expect it, but it got me going,” he said.
The Lions have officially opened McNeill’s 21-day practice window, though head coach Dan Campbell and the training staff are easing him back in. While there’s hope he could return before Detroit’s Week 8 bye, it’s unlikely he’ll be active for Sunday’s matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. In his absence, rookie Tyleik Williams and veteran DJ Reader have handled starting duties inside.
Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard was impressed with McNeill’s sharpness in his first sessions back.
“It’s like he never missed time. On film, he looks like he’s been in camp the whole way,” Sheppard said. “He’s a high-caliber defensive tackle, and I’m thrilled to see him back out there.”
For McNeill, the focus is on proving he’s ready without forcing the process.
“I’m just taking it day by day, practice by practice. I want to show good tape and let them know I’m ready. I don’t have a target date, but I can’t wait to play again,” he said.
The 24-year-old spent five months rehabbing in San Diego, working with physical therapist Derek Samuel, and continued his recovery with Detroit’s strength staff in the offseason. He said his mindset kept him moving forward.
“I couldn’t afford dark days. My goal was always to get back on the field. Every day I told myself, ‘Let’s get better today,’ and that’s what carried me through.”
Before his injury, McNeill had become one of Detroit’s defensive leaders. In 2023, he posted 25 tackles and 3.5 sacks across 14 starts, showing his value as both a run-stopper and pass disruptor. His importance was cemented last October when he signed a four-year, $97 million extension with $55 million guaranteed.
Quarterback Jared Goff praised his teammate’s impact.
“He’s a great leader and teammate. He can line up anywhere, stop the run, rush the passer, and he always gives our O-line trouble,” Goff said.
Now, with McNeill, Reader, and Williams forming a powerful trio inside, the Lions’ defensive front looks even more formidable.
“Double destruction now,” McNeill said with a grin. “We’ve added another elite piece, and I’m ready to pick up where I left off.”
