It appears former Oregon Ducks football players are facing a rough patch with injuries this NFL preseason. After center Jackson Powers-Johnson struggled with a shoulder issue while with the Las Vegas Raiders, and quarterback Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers dealt with a right foot ailment, another Duck has joined the injury list. However, the latest news surrounding this injury seems more promising.
Detroit Lions offensive tackle Penei Sewell, a former Oregon standout and Outland Trophy winner, recently left practice due to a foot injury. Sewell was seen heading to the locker room after trainers removed his shoe and sock to examine his ankle and foot. Despite the concern, beat reporter Justin Rogers from the Detroit Football Network received a reassuring message from a source, saying simply, “He’s good.”
Further reports from ESPN’s Eric Woodyard indicate that Sewell suffered a rolled ankle but underwent an MRI, which showed no additional issues beyond the rolled ankle.
Fortunately for the Lions, Sewell was not scheduled to play in their final preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Colby Sorsdal and Jamarco Jones, who are listed as second and third on the depth chart, respectively, will handle right tackle duties. Sorsdal, a fifth-round pick from William & Mary, and Jones, who joined the Lions after a stint with the Tennessee Titans, are expected to step in.
Since being drafted seventh overall by the Lions in 2021, Sewell has made a significant impact, earning Pro Bowl selections in consecutive years and a first-team All-Pro honor in 2023. He played a key role in helping the Lions reach the NFC Championship, where they narrowly lost to the San Francisco 49ers.
Sewell signed a landmark contract worth $112 million during the off-season, making him the highest-paid offensive tackle in the NFL at that time. However, that title was recently surpassed by Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Tristan Wirfs, who secured a five-year deal exceeding $140 million.
The Detroit Lions will kick off their regular season against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, September 8th, at 5:20 P.M. Pacific Standard Time.