Get ready for a thrilling Monday Night Football showdown as the Detroit Lions (4-2) host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-1) at Ford Field in Week 7. But here’s where it gets interesting: after back-to-back road games, both teams are adjusting their practice schedules, with the Lions hitting the field on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. This week’s injury report is packed with updates, and trust us, you won’t want to miss the details—especially the bold changes that could shift the game’s dynamics.
Injured Reserve and PUP List Updates
Several key players remain on the sidelines, but their statuses are evolving. Here’s the breakdown:
- TE Shane Zylstra (ankle, Reserve/IR) – Still recovering from a significant injury.
- LT Giovanni Manu (knee, Reserve/IR) – Eligible to return in Week 11, giving fans something to look forward to.
- G Miles Frazier (undisclosed, Reserve/PUP) – Spotted working with trainers, hinting at a potential return soon.
- EDGE Marcus Davenport (pectoral, Reserve/IR) – Coach Dan Campbell says he’s improving but won’t return before the bye week. Controversial question: Could the Lions’ defense struggle without Davenport’s presence?
- EDGE Josh Paschal (undisclosed, Reserve/NFI) – Still no timeline for his return.
- DT Alim McNeill (ACL, Reserve/PUP) – His 21-day evaluation window has begun, and he’s expected to play against the Bucs. But here’s the kicker: Campbell plans to ease him in with limited snaps. Will it be enough to make an impact?
- LB Malcolm Rodriguez (ACL, Reserve/PUP) – Could start practicing after the bye week, but his return timeline remains uncertain.
- CB D.J. Reed (hamstring, IR) – Eligible to return in Week 10, leaving a hole in the secondary for now.
- CB Khalil Dorsey (concussion, wrist, Reserve/IR) – Could return in Week 11, but his absence is felt.
- S Daniel Thomas (forearm, Reserve/IR) – Eligible to return in Week 8, adding depth to the safety position.
No Practice This Week
Several players are still sidelined, including:
- RB Sione Vaki (groin) – Out since Week 3, and his return remains uncertain.
- DT DJ Reader (back) – A new injury, but he was spotted working with trainers, suggesting a potential quick return.
- CB Terrion Arnold (shoulder) and DB Avonte Maddox (hamstring) – Both expected to miss this game but could return after the bye. And this is the part most people miss: Maddox’s progress with trainers is a positive sign.
- S Kerby Joseph (knee) – Played through pain last week but is being reassessed for Week 7. Campbell’s words: ‘He tried to gut through it, but it wasn’t his best performance.’ Will he be ready?
Limited Practice
- LT Taylor Decker (shoulder) – A huge surprise! Decker returned to practice earlier than expected, opening the door for a potential return this week. Bold prediction: His presence could be a game-changer for the Lions’ offensive line.
Full Practice
- DT Alim McNeill (ACL) – Expected to be activated and play against the Bucs, but with limited snaps.
- LB Zach Cunningham (hamstring) – Back in full practice after an extended absence. With the bye week looming, will he sit or play?
No Longer on the Injury Report
- WR Amon-Ra St. Brown (wrist) – Back in action and expected to be at full strength.
- WR Kalif Raymond (neck) – Limited last week but should see his usual workload moving forward.
Bucs’ Injury Report: A Potential Weakness?
The Buccaneers aren’t without their own injury concerns. Key players like RB Bucky Irving (foot/shoulder), WR Emeka Egbuka (hamstring), and WR Chris Godwin (fibula) are out, while WR Mike Evans (hamstring) is limited. Controversial interpretation: Could the Lions exploit Tampa Bay’s depleted offense? Let’s discuss in the comments!
As both teams navigate these injuries, one thing’s for sure: this Monday Night Football matchup is shaping up to be a battle of strategy and resilience. Who do you think has the edge? Share your thoughts below!
