The Lions will gain reinforcements on both offense and defense for tomorrow night’s crucial game. Wide receiver Kalif Raymond and linebacker Alex Anzalone have been activated from injured reserve, according to a team statement.
Raymond has been on IR since November with a foot injury but resumed practice last week, beginning his 21-day activation window. To have him ready for Week 18, today’s move was necessary. Raymond will bolster the passing game behind lead receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and tight end Sam LaPorta.
Detroit’s offense has largely avoided injuries compared to the defense, but added receiver depth and the return of their primary punt returner ahead of the playoffs is a valuable boost.
Anzalone’s return is equally crucial as Detroit eyes the NFC’s top seed. The 30-year-old opened his practice window on Wednesday, though his availability for tomorrow was uncertain. Listed as questionable with a broken forearm that landed him on IR, his activation signals a strong chance he will play. If so, the Lions will regain a starting linebacker, strengthening their defensive lineup.
Not all injury news is favorable, however. Cornerback Emmanuel Moseley has been placed on the reserve/non-football injury list, sidelining him for at least four games and likely ending his season. Moseley’s 2023 debut ended with an ACL tear in Week 1, and his follow-up campaign has been rocky.
The pending free agent has played just two games, which could impact his market value. With Carlton Davis also out, losing Moseley, who last played in Week 16, is a notable setback.
Several other Lions players could return if Detroit makes a deep playoff push. Securing the NFC North and a first-round bye would improve their chances, but a loss to the Vikings in the regular season finale could drop them to the No. 5 seed. Regardless, increasing healthy contributors will be critical moving forward.
