When you first glanced at the Detroit Lions’ Week 3 injury report for their game against the New York Jets, it probably looked pretty grim. We’re talking four offensive linemen chilling on that list, and man, you just know that unit can’t afford any more hits. But hold up, because after a closer look, the news for that O-line group is actually looking way more positive than you’d expect.
Who’s Really Out For Sunday?
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Guard Ben Bartch (foot) and safety Thomas Harper (ankle) are both missing their second straight practice, and that’s not a great sign for either of them hitting the field against the Jets. Honestly, it sounds like Harper is almost certainly out, with Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard already talking about getting Christian Izien prepped to potentially start this week alongside Chuck Clark. Sheppard even said, “I’m excited to see Christian Izien and go out there and fly around at the safety spot this week.” As for Bartch’s foot, his prognosis is still a mystery, and it’s unclear if this is connected to the injury that ended his 2025 season. Yikes.
The O-Line Starters Are Looking Good
Now for the good news on the offensive line. Left guard Christian Mahogany (hip), right tackle Blake Miller (knee), and right guard Tate Ratledge (elbow) were all limited in practice, but that’s actually no change from earlier reports. Here’s the kicker: it was hinted that both Mahogany and Miller might have even played last week if their game wasn’t on a Thursday. That’s huge! It means they’re likely on track to play this week, assuming no setbacks pop up. Less is known about Ratledge’s elbow, but the fact he wasn’t downgraded to “no practice” on Thursday is a positive sign this wasn’t some sudden, serious issue from Wednesday’s practice. So, for now, don’t expect any shake-ups to Detroit’s projected starting lineup of Penei Sewell, Christian Mahogany, Juice Scruggs, Tate Ratledge, and Blake Miller. That’s a huge sigh of relief for that unit.
Full Go For Key Guys
Beyond the O-line, defensive tackle Alim McNeill (personal) was upgraded from no practice on Wednesday, and edge rusher Ahmed Hassanein (illness) also moved up from limited practice. Long snapper Hogan Hatten (wrist) was also a full participant. McNeill’s back at practice and looks good to go for Sunday, and same deal for Hatten. Lions special teams coordinator Dave Fipp straight-up told reporters that Hatten’s wrist injury is basically a non-issue: “He snapped fine yesterday and he’ll play in the game. He looks good to me,” Fipp said. No drama there!
Looking ahead to Sunday’s matchup, the Jets have some injury concerns of their own. Running back Kene Nwangwu (back), tight end Mason Taylor (thumb), linebacker Francisco Mauigoa (quad), and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (groin) all sat out Thursday’s practice, with Taylor not expected to play. Edge rusher Joseph Ossai (foot) and wide receiver Adona (whose update cut off there) were limited. So, while Detroit’s report had its initial scares, it looks like they might be heading into this game healthier than many thought, which is exactly what you want to see for a Week 3 clash.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pride of Detroit.
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