The Detroit Lions have placed linebacker Zach Cunningham on injured reserve, the team announced. Cunningham has been dealing with a hamstring injury and is expected to miss at least four games. This move comes as a significant blow to the Lions’ defense, particularly with the team’s recent injury woes.

 

Impact on the Team

 

Cunningham’s absence will be felt on both defense and special teams. He has played in four games for the Lions, recording seven total tackles. His versatility and experience will be difficult to replace, and the team will need to adjust their lineup accordingly. The Lions have signed veteran linebacker Ty Summers to the active roster and promoted Loren Strickland from the practice squad to fill the void left by Cunningham’s injury ¹ ².

 

Depth Chart Adjustments

 

With Cunningham out, the Lions’ linebacker depth chart will likely feature:

– Starters: Jack Campbell (MIKE), Alex Anzalone (WILL), Derrick Barnes (SAM)

– Backups: Trevor Nowaske (SAM), Grant Stuard (WILL), Ty Summers (WILL/MIKE)

 

 

The team will need to rely on their depth and adjust their game plan to compensate for Cunningham’s absence. Coach Dan Campbell emphasized the importance of staying focused and urgent in their approach, especially with the current injury situation ³.

 

Injury Update

 

The Lions have been dealing with several injuries, including ² ⁴:

– Linebackers: Zach Cunningham (hamstring), Alex Anzalone (broken forearm)

– Running Backs: Sione Vaki (groin)

– Defensive Linemen: Mekhi Wingo

– Safeties: Daniel Thomas (forearm)

 

 

What’s Next?

 

The Lions will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their next game, and the team will need to come up with a solid game plan to succeed without Cunningham. With their strong pass rush and defensive performance, they have a good chance of winning. However, the team will need to stay focused and adapt to the injury situation to achieve victory.

 

The Lions’ injury report is a reminder of the physical demands of the NFL and the importance of having a deep and talented roster. With Cunningham out for at least four games, the team will need to rally behind their players and come up with innovative solutions to succeed ⁵.