Terrion Arnold’s availability seemed uncertain heading into this weekend’s matchup.
But the Lions’ rookie corner was seen participating in Wednesday’s practice at Allen Park. Arnold injured his shoulder during the second half of last week’s win over the Cleveland Browns. He didn’t return, with Amik Robertson, Khalil Dorsey and Rock Ya-Sin stepping in to cover his role at corner.
Defensive tackle Alim McNeill also returned to practice for the first time since tearing his ACL last December. Detroit now has 21 days to decide on activating him from the PUP list.
With D.J. Reed ruled out for the upcoming clash against the Cincinnati Bengals — and likely longer — the Lions will need Arnold to be available and playing far better than he has to start the season.
Reed was absent from practice. His hamstring issue is expected to keep him sidelined for multiple games. The encouraging news is the team doesn’t view it as a season-ending injury.
Detroit was also without Dorsey at Thursday’s practice, leaving cornerback depth even thinner. Cincinnati’s offense hasn’t done much since losing Joe Burrow to turf toe, but Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins remain threats for any secondary, especially a depleted one.
Decker’s absence comes as no surprise. He’s continued playing through the shoulder issue while rarely practicing since the season opener.
“I’m always impressed. Decker’s been laying it all out for us, and we know he’s not fully healthy, so it’s taken everything for him to get ready each week,” coach Dan Campbell said Wednesday. “That’s been huge. And what he’s given us through four weeks has been impressive. We’re lucky he’s been able to hold things down.”
“So I think he’s played solid football, and now it’s about getting him healthier, trying to restore his body.”
Vaki sat out the Browns game after picking up a groin injury against the Ravens. Cunningham also missed last week. He appeared on the injury report with a hamstring on Thursday and didn’t make it back.
Dorsey’s situation is something new to track. He had an opportunity to help replace Reed and Arnold outside, but it was Rock Ya-Sin who closed out the game after Dorsey logged seven defensive snaps.
Joseph has dealt with a knee problem since training camp. The All-Pro safety exited last week’s contest with the injury but did return in the second half, where he secured his second interception of the season.
Detroit has signed Tre Flowers and Nick Whiteside to the practice squad at cornerback. Campbell noted the need for extra bodies just to finish practice sessions. They also intend to promote safety Loren Strickland from the practice squad to the 53-man roster.
