It was clear during the Week 15 game against the Buffalo Bills that something was seriously wrong, and it was soon confirmed.

Detroit Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill tore his right ACL, leading him to miss the remainder of the season, adding to the growing list of defensive injuries for the team.

When players were cleaning out their lockers at the end of the season, McNeill spoke about the uncertainty of his recovery timeline.

“I don’t really know about the timeline,” McNeill said. “I’m just taking things one day at a time and focusing on the process right now.”

.The recovery period for an ACL tear typically spans 9-12 months. It remains unclear if McNeill sustained additional damage to his knee that could affect his rehabilitation, but as the offseason moves forward, it will become clearer where he stands in his recovery.

While in New Orleans for the Super Bowl, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press interviewed Dr. David Chao from Sports Injury Central on radio row to discuss the extensive injuries the Lions faced this season.

Given the timing of McNeill’s injury, it’s not surprising that his availability for the start of the next season is in question. Dr. Chao emphasized that McNeill is his biggest concern among the Lions’ injuries.

“Alim McNeill is the biggest worry. It’s going to be tough for him to be ready for the season opener,” Dr. Chao said. “It’s not impossible, but getting him back for the second half of the season at full strength would be a positive outcome. That’s what they have to hope for.”

The Lions are known for being cautious with players recovering from significant injuries, and McNeill will likely be no different. He will gradually ease into practice when cleared, and his return to playing could be delayed until later in the season.

Considering McNeill may not be fully recovered until the second half of the season, the defensive tackle position will likely be a focus in free agency or the draft.