The Detroit Lions have faced significant injury challenges in recent weeks, impacting several key players. Despite this, head coach Dan Campbell offered encouraging updates on Tuesday regarding their recovery.
On the defensive side, Campbell announced that cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. will return to practice today. Veteran cornerbacks Carlton Davis and Amik Robertson have also resumed limited practice sessions, while cornerback Terrion Arnold is expected to join practice next week.
CB health updates:
– Rakestraw will practice today
– Carlton Davis is limited
– Amik Robertson is limited
– Terrion Arnold could get a practice in middle of next week.— Pride of Detroit (@PrideOfDetroit) August 20, 2024
Defensive lineman DJ Reader, who has been sidelined since suffering a torn quadriceps last season, is also aiming to return to practice soon. “No specific timetable yet, but I’m feeling positive about my rehab and my running,” Reader shared on Monday, as reported by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. “I don’t have a set return date, but I’m optimistic about my progress.”
Dan Campbell says the plan is to get Jahmyr Gibbs going next week.
Says they're looking to get a lot of guys back then: Zeitler, Rodriguez, and DJ READER started around then. (among others)
— Pride of Detroit (@PrideOfDetroit) August 20, 2024
Backup linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez might also return to practice next week.
With Davis and Arnold anticipated to start on the boundary, Robertson is expected to cover the slot with Brian Branch moving to safety. Rakestraw is likely to be the top backup cornerback.
Reader, who joined the Lions in free agency, has the potential to form a formidable interior defensive line duo with Alim McNeill, who is coming off a standout season. Despite recent injury setbacks, the Lions are hopeful that these players will be ready for Week 1.