Terrion Arnold’s shoulder situation and possible comeback have taken fans on a roller-coaster of mixed updates.

I nitially, reports suggested his season might be finished. Then came encouraging news from a second medical opinion, indicating the second-year cornerback could potentially return before the month ends.

Dan Campbell confirmed the good news from that second evaluation but added some uncertainty about an October return, noting they still need time for the shoulder inflammation to subside.

“Yeah, the second opinion sounded promising, but it’s not guaranteed,” Campbell said. “We’re waiting to see how it progresses. We’ll give it time and monitor how he responds.”

Arnold addressed reporters in the locker room Wednesday afternoon. The 2024 first-rounder admitted he “wanted to cry” after hearing the initial diagnosis. When the second opinion came back better, his focus shifted toward recovery and returning quickly.

The corner entered last week’s game already nursing the shoulder injury from the previous outing. He said it was lingering and constantly irritated but something he felt he had to push through. Arnold explained the injury occurred while diving to make a tackle — “in football, they tell you not to reach,” he said — and hitting the ground worsened it.

“I’m just trying to stay as positive as possible,” Arnold said. “The second opinion went really well. I’m trusting my body and focusing on healing fast so I can rejoin my teammates soon.”

Campbell praised Arnold for delivering one of his strongest performances this season against the Cincinnati Bengals. The young corner said it was the first time in a while that he felt completely loose and confident.

Arnold shared that personal issues off the field, combined with a rocky start to the season, weighed on him early. He credited Campbell, defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, and corners coach Deshea Townsend for helping him regain confidence and composure.

“That game felt like me again,” Arnold said. “Back to training camp form. When I got hurt, it crushed me. I was finally back to my old self. Those first few games, I was dealing with a lot off the field, but talking with Coach Campbell, Coach Shep, and Coach Deshea really helped me relax and refocus.”

He added that Campbell takes pride in creating “a safe haven” for players struggling personally or mentally. That support made Arnold realize, “Coach really has my back and means what he says.” The belief from the staff lifted his spirits and reflected in his play.

Despite being flagged twice — including one that wiped out a safety by Aidan Hutchinson — Arnold stayed composed, played tight coverage, and broke up several passes.

Both Arnold and the Lions were thrilled with his effort against Cincinnati. For a moment, it was a huge positive, especially with D.J. Reed (hamstring) already on injured reserve.

I n Arnold’s absence, expect Amik Robertson to see an expanded role. The Lions are confident in the feisty veteran’s ability to move between the slot and perimeter.

Veterans Rock Ya-Sin and Avonte Maddox could also see more reps. Ya-Sin is projected to handle outside duties while Maddox provides inside versatility.

“He’s more than just a backup,” Campbell said of Robertson. “That’s why we signed him — he’s tough, confident, great in man coverage, and has solid ball skills. We’re totally confident in him both outside and in the slot.”