The Detroit Lions dropped their first injury report for Sunday’s Ford Field clash, and it’s got some gut punches for the home team. Star running back Jahmyr Gibbs, dealing with a shoulder issue, and powerhouse wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown, nursing an ankle problem, both sat out all practice this week. That’s a huge blow to their offensive firepower right out of the gate for this crucial NFC matchup.
Lions’ Key Starters on the Sidelines, While Others Rest
It’s not just Gibbs and St. Brown giving Lions fans anxiety. Fellow starters Kerby Joseph at safety and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. at cornerback were both limited in practice with knee and ankle injuries respectively. On top of that, running back Jacob Saylors also had a limited practice with a neck issue. The DNP list for Detroit also includes defensive end Aiden Hutchinson, defensive tackle Alim McNeil, left tackle Penei Sewell, and defensive end D.J. Wonnum, though their absences were not injury related, noted as NIR-Rest. Defensive tackle Tyleik Williams was also out with an illness. Seeing so many key names, especially those two offensive titans, miss practice all week has to be a major concern for the Lions as they prepare to face a divisional rival.
Vikings Get Healthier After the Bye Week
On the other side of the field, the Minnesota Vikings’ injury report tells a more optimistic story, especially after their bye week. While they did have their own set of DNP players, including Donovan Jackson and Joe Huber, both starting left guards with knee issues, and starting running back Aaron Jones, also with a knee injury, the news mostly looks positive for their top talent. Starting right tackle Brian O’Neill was a limited participant with a knee issue. The really good news, though? Christian Darrisaw and T.J. Hockenson are both expected to clear concussion protocol and play on Sunday. Jordan Mason is also set to return from IR and play, alongside Jordan Addison and Charles Demmings, who are back practicing after hamstring injuries and are expected to suit up. Even Justin Jefferson and James Pierre, dealing with minor injuries, are expected to be good to go. It seems like the Vikings are getting back to full strength just in time, which makes the contrast with Detroit’s current situation even starker.
This Sunday afternoon at Ford Field is going to be a real test of depth for the Lions, especially if Gibbs and St. Brown can’t suit up. The Vikings, seemingly getting healthier at the perfect moment, will be looking to capitalize. We’ll be watching to see which team steps up when the whistle blows, and how these injury reports ultimately shape the outcome on the field.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Daily Norseman.
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