The Detroit Lions defense has come under heavy criticism after its poor showing against the Los Angeles Rams, a game in which the unit surrendered more than 500 total yards.

Two key defensive contributors graded near the bottom of Pro Football Focus’ Week 15 evaluations. Defensive tackle Alim McNeill, who is still working his way back after tearing his ACL last season, received a 45.2 grade. Cornerback D.J. Reed, Detroit’s most notable free-agent addition last offseason, finished with the lowest grade on the team at 29.5.

Reed’s recent stretch has been especially concerning. Over the past four games, opposing quarterbacks have completed 18 passes against him for 302 yards. Only Amik Robertson has allowed more receiving yards during that span.

Head coach Dan Campbell addressed both players’ struggles during his weekly appearance on 97.1 The Ticket, as well as in his postgame press conference following Detroit’s 41-34 loss to Los Angeles.

Campbell said McNeill is aware his performance has fallen short of expectations and believes the defensive tackle is capable of much more.

“Mac is extremely hard on himself,” Campbell explained. “He expects a lot out of his game. Sometimes when you’re trying to do everything right, you end up overthinking instead of just playing fast and free. We all know he’s got more to give, and he knows it too. He’ll get back to work and be fine.”

As for Reed, Campbell acknowledged the challenges that come with playing cornerback in Detroit’s defensive scheme, where players are often left in one-on-one coverage situations.

“Those guys are out there on their own,” Campbell said. “There’s no hiding. It’s like being a quarterback — you’re exposed. You’re not going to win every rep, and sometimes you go through a rough stretch.”

Campbell expressed confidence that Reed will rebound, noting his work ethic and mindset.

“I know him well enough to trust that he’ll push through this,” Campbell added. “He’s been grinding, he’s been competing, and he’s going to come out on the other side of it. He’ll be just fine.”