The Detroit Lions took a 17-13 preseason win against the Washington Commanders, but it definitely came with a cost. Cedrick Wilson Jr., who was battling hard for the No. 5 receiver spot, went down with a left knee injury just eight minutes into the game, and head coach Dan Campbell is “worried” about what’s next. Wilson grabbed the back of his leg and hobbled off after running a route on an incomplete pass to Tom Kennedy, and Campbell’s post-game comments were pretty direct.
Wilson’s Injury Leaves a Huge Question Mark in a “Difficult Room”
Campbell didn’t mince words, saying, “I’m worried on that one.” He’s clearly a fan of Wilson, highlighting that the 30-year-old is a “smart, crafty football player, gets it. Can play all the spots at receiver, special teams.” Before the injury, Wilson was showing exactly that, with back-to-back catches for 4 and 17 yards. This guy was the most accomplished veteran in that battle for a back-end job, and losing him means a lot. Campbell admitted, “That room is hard. That room is very difficult right now because there are guys that are making plays.” Lucky Jackson snagged multiple catches and Tay Martin had a monster block to spring Josh Dobbs for a 50-yard touchdown run, plus drew an illegal blocking penalty on special teams. So yeah, the competition is intense, and Wilson’s absence just makes it even more chaotic.
More Injury Woes for the Lions’ Backfield and O-Line
Wilson isn’t the only one dealing with an injury. Running back Jabari Small is now in concussion protocol after carrying the ball three times for 16 yards. And another running back, Sione Vaki, didn’t even play on Saturday due to a back spasm. Vaki, who just returned to practice last week after breaking his nose from an inadvertent hand through his facemask, had a knot in his back that Campbell described as “not major but it’s enough.” Campbell was hoping they could loosen it up but “ran out of time.” The good news? Campbell anticipates Vaki “will be ready to practice this week” after also dealing with a “punched out eye.” On the offensive line, Michael Niese was on crutches after the game, injuring his leg blocking downfield.
So, while the Lions grabbed a preseason win, these early injuries are a major storyline. Wilson’s knee, in particular, could shake up the receiver depth chart big time. We’ll be watching to see how Vaki progresses this week and who steps up in that receiver room with Wilson sidelined. It’s early, but these health updates are already shaping the roster battles.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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