The Detroit Lions will have to keep waiting for the return of one of their top defensive players. Although cornerback DJ Reed has now spent the minimum four games on injured reserve, head coach Dan Campbell doesn’t expect him back until early December. Reed has been sidelined since late September, when he suffered a hamstring injury while in coverage against the Cleveland Browns.

“Reed’s doing well — I can’t really lock down a specific timeline yet,” Campbell said during his Friday morning media availability. “But I’d say early December is probably realistic. He’s improving every week and trending in the right direction.”

Reed’s Early Impact Before the Injury

Reed was Detroit’s marquee free-agent addition this offseason, signing a three-year, $48 million contract, and quickly established himself as the team’s No. 1 cornerback. Through the first four games of the season, he recorded 16 tackles, one interception, and one fumble recovery.

According to Pro Football Focus, Reed ranks 23rd among qualifying cornerbacks overall and is graded as the third-best run defender at the position — a trait the Lions coaching staff values highly. He has been particularly effective in coverage, surrendering just 11 receptions on 18 targets with no touchdowns allowed, while opposing quarterbacks have posted only a 61.3 passer rating when throwing his way — the ninth-best mark in the NFL among starters.

Lions’ Secondary Adjustments

Until Reed returns, the Lions will continue relying on Terrion Arnold and Amik Robertson as their primary outside corners, with Rock Ya-Sin rotating in when needed.

Arnold, last year’s first-round pick, has shown progress in coverage, notching the first interception of his career last week and earning praise from the coaching staff for his improving technique. However, defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard noted that Arnold’s run defense still needs significant improvement, calling it “unacceptable right now.”

Meanwhile, Robertson has shifted from his usual nickelback role to play more on the perimeter, a move the team remains confident in.

Sheppard also highlighted Arthur Maulet’s performance in the slot, indicating that the veteran will continue to handle those duties moving forward.

“If the game’s on the line,” Sheppard said, “Arthur Maulet’s going to be in press coverage, and he’s going to find a way to knock that ball loose.”

Looking Ahead

The Lions will face the Washington Commanders in an NFC matchup on Sunday, with DraftKings setting the over/under at 49.5 total points. For bettors, our DraftKings Sportsbook review offers a complete breakdown of the platform and the best Lions Week 10 odds available.