As the Detroit Lions prepare for a Week 18 matchup with the Chicago Bears that carries no playoff implications, head coach Dan Campbell stopped short of giving a clear yes or no on whether his starters will suit up.
Campbell explained that even games without postseason stakes can still be valuable for evaluating a roster. He emphasized that the standard in Detroit is to compete hard every time they step onto the field, regardless of circumstances.
“There’s always something to learn in that final game,” Campbell said. “We may not be chasing a playoff spot, but this still tells us a lot about our team. The expectation is that whoever is available gives full effort one last time.”
That mindset suggests many starters will likely play. However, Campbell was far less definitive when discussing players dealing with injuries. He acknowledged the team is banged up and said decisions will depend on how players progress over the next few days.
“We’ve got a lot of guys dealing with stuff,” Campbell said. “We’ll know more soon. If someone’s able to play, then we’ll play them.”
One of the biggest injury questions involves wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, who appeared to tweak an ongoing knee issue. Campbell said the knee is involved but offered reassurance about St. Brown’s long-term outlook.
“The good thing is, long-term, he should be fine,” Campbell noted.
That comment might suggest St. Brown sits this week, but Campbell didn’t rule him out entirely. He described the receiver as improving and labeled him “day-to-day,” adding that St. Brown is eager to play.
When asked if the team handles borderline injury decisions differently given the low stakes of the finale, Campbell admitted that context does matter.
“If it’s a close call and there’s a chance of creating a bigger issue down the road, then it’s not worth it,” he said. “But if it’s just soreness or normal wear and tear, we treat it like any other week.”
In short, Detroit appears willing to be cautious with players who could worsen an injury, while still expecting those who are merely dealing with aches to be available.
Some fans have also hoped the Lions would use the finale to give extra snaps to younger players. Campbell made it clear that won’t happen unless injuries force the issue.
“If someone can’t play, then the next man up plays,” he said. “Doesn’t matter if they’re young or a veteran—it’s whoever’s next on the depth chart.”
Finally, Campbell addressed speculation about rookie guard Tate Ratledge potentially getting reps at center. While he didn’t rule out that possibility in the future, he quickly shut down the idea for Sunday’s game.
“That’s not something I see happening this week,” Campbell said.