The Detroit Lions (12-1) returned from their mini-bye weekend with an optimistic outlook on several injured players.

Head coach Dan Campbell didn’t provide specific details regarding the injuries, stating that a clearer picture would emerge as the team progressed through the week of practice.

However, he expressed more confidence in left tackle Taylor Decker’s recovery and the status of several key defensive linemen.

“I can say this—every one of our guys is doing better, and it’s much more positive,” Campbell shared. “Everyone is healing up, so we’re definitely in a better position than last week.

I don’t know exactly how many players will be ready to return yet, and honestly, I may not have a clear answer until Thursday. But I’m feeling more optimistic about Decker. I need to see more, but I’m hopeful.

As for the defensive line, things are still in flux. There’s a chance Levi (Onwuzurike) could return, and Alim (McNeill) is progressing.

Mac is in the protocols, but he’s been involved in everything. He didn’t take a step back, so as long as he clears, that’s a positive sign, though we’re still figuring out the timeline.”

Defensive tackle DJ Reader (shoulder) and edge rusher Josh Paschal (knee) are both in the same uncertain category as the team prepares for the Buffalo Bills game this weekend.

Their statuses remain unclear, and the Lions will continue to evaluate them through the week.

In addition to the players currently dealing with injuries, Campbell also provided an update on those on injured reserve.

The Lions are carefully monitoring cornerbacks Ennis Rakestraw (hamstring) and Ifeatu Melifonwu (finger), as both are nearing the end of their four-week recovery window. Decisions on their status will be made soon.

While there’s hope for these players to return before the season ends, there is uncertainty surrounding other key veterans, such as wide receiver and return specialist Kalif Raymond (foot), and linebackers Alex Anzalone (forearm) and Jalen Reeves-Maybin (neck).

“Alex is progressing well, and we think he could return by the end of the season,” Campbell explained.

“It could be the final game of the regular season, or it could be in the playoffs, but we’re confident we’ll get him back. Kalif is probably on a similar timeline to Alex.”

As for Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Campbell said that while he’s improving, his recovery is progressing slowly. “Jalen is better, but it’s a slow process. I’m not sure where he’ll be in the coming weeks.

There’s a chance we get him back in a few weeks, or there’s a chance we won’t. It’s just too early to say.”

One of the most closely watched injury situations involves star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson, who suffered a broken tibia and fibula during Week 5. Since then, Hutchinson has been seen attending Lions games from a suite at Ford Field.

While national reports have hinted at the possibility of a return if the Lions make it to the Super Bowl, Campbell reiterated his cautious stance regarding Hutchinson’s recovery.

“I’m still in the same place I was when the injury happened,” Campbell said. “This is a tough injury, but I would never count Aidan out, knowing who he is.

He’s been working hard and progressing, but I can’t give you a definitive timeline for his return. I don’t know if he’ll have enough time to make it back, but if anyone can do it, it’s him.”

The Lions will continue to monitor the injuries closely, but with key players like Decker and the defensive line improving, there is hope for a strong finish to the season.

However, several key players’ statuses will remain in flux until later in the week.