Lions Receive Tough Update on Key Defender Ahead of Bengals Clash
The Detroit Lions have been eagerly awaiting the return of a major defensive contributor sidelined for the first month of the season — but they’ll have to wait at least another week.
The team announced Friday that defensive tackle Alim McNeill will not play against the Cincinnati Bengals, despite showing solid progress in his recovery from a torn ACL. McNeill had been pushing to rejoin the lineup, but the Lions are opting for a cautious approach with their starting interior lineman.
Alim McNeill Officially Ruled Out
Midway through the week, the team said McNeill’s status would be determined after Friday’s practice, with head coach Dan Campbell calling his chances “50/50.” But on Friday, Detroit confirmed that McNeill would sit out Sunday’s game.
There was optimism earlier in the week that McNeill could be activated from the physically unable to perform list, with defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard noting the progress he’s made.
“I’ve seen all I need to see. I know he’s going to help in a big way. The hardest part now is just being patient,” Sheppard said, via SI.com. “It’s a group decision with our training staff, strength staff, and Coach Campbell giving the go-ahead based on what that process looks like.”
Sheppard said both he and Campbell were impressed by how sharp McNeill looked in workouts, adding that the veteran defensive tackle already seems to have made up for lost time.
“And that’s a testament to him,” Sheppard continued. “They talk about bone density and all those technical things, but all I know is I saw a top-tier defensive tackle when I watched the tape yesterday. I’m thrilled to get him back soon.”
Lions Also Rule Out Three More Players
Detroit also ruled out three additional players for Sunday’s matchup against the Bengals — running back Sione Vaki, linebacker Zach Cunningham, and cornerback Khalil Dorsey. As Erik Schlitt of Pride of Detroit reported, Vaki has missed six straight practices with a groin issue and was already expected to be unavailable.
“There’s optimism he’ll return within the next two weeks, which would provide a boost to the Lions’ special teams unit,” Schlitt wrote.
Dorsey remains in concussion protocol and returned to practice Thursday but is still limited by a wrist injury, according to Schlitt.
The Lions defense also suffered a blow this week when starting cornerback D.J. Reed was placed on injured reserve. Although he’ll miss at least a month, Campbell said the situation could have been far worse.
“He’s going to be out for a bit,” Campbell told reporters, via The Athletic. “But the good part is it’s not season-ending. We’ll get him back eventually, which is great news. He’s a warrior.”
