Detroit Lions

Maddox will miss the rest of the 2026 season due to a left foot injury he sustained in the Lions' Week 2 loss to the Bills. He'll shift his focus toward being fully healthy for the 2027 campaign, though he'll enter the offseason as an unrestricted free agent. With Maddox, Brian Branch (Achilles) and Kerby Joseph (knee) all sidelined, Thomas Harper and Chuck Clark will serve as Detroit's starting safeties for the time being.

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Bartch has already missed three games due to a foot injury that he sustained against the Bills in Week 2. While on IR, he'll be forced to miss at least four games, so Week 11 against the Buccaneers on Sunday, Nov. 22, is the earliest he can return.

Niese suffered a right leg injury in the Lions' preseason game against the Commanders on Aug. 22. The offensive lineman was waived Sunday with an injury designation and went unclaimed. Niese will now spend the entirety of the 2026 regular season on IR unless he is waived with an injury settlement.

It's not immediately clear what kind of injury Clark suffered, but the timing of the transaction means he's now in line to spend the entire 2026 season on IR unless he works out an injury settlement with the Lions. His departure could open up more opportunities for fellow free-agent acquisition Amen Ogbongbemiga.

White was diagnosed with a broken forearm following the Lions' Week 5 win over the Cardinals. He'll be required to miss at least the next four games on IR, and while he's likely to be sidelined past that minimum window, there's optimism that the veteran linebacker will return at some point this season. Malcolm Rodriguez is the next man up at linebacker in White's absence.

Campbell suffered a neck injury while making a tackle in the third quarter of last Sunday's win over Minnesota and remains in the hospital. Detroit head coach Dan Campbell shared Friday that the linebacker continues to improve, but his placement on IR means he'll miss at least the team's next four games. K.J. Britt, who Detroit signed off New England's practice squad Wednesday, may be asked to immediately step into a starting role.

This move was anticipated, as Rolder suffered a season-ending hamstring injury in the Lions' win over Minnesota on Sunday. The rookie linebacker logged a career-high 17 defensive snaps and notched his first NFL sack in that contest, so his injury comes at an unfortunate time. Rolder will now turn his focus toward rehabbing the injury in order to be ready for offseason activities in 2027.

Pacheco has been sidelined for the entirety of the regular season to this point after undergoing back surgery in September. Sione Vaki has been working as the Lions' clear RB2, though Jahmyr Gibbs has been a true workhorse out of the backfield. If Pacheco does return at the end of the regular season, it's hard to envision him having a big impact coming off back surgery.

Harper has not been able to practice since sustaining an ankle injury during the Lions' Week 2 loss to the Bills. The safety departing for IR leaves the Lions' secondary dangerously low on defensive backs, now without Harper, Avonte Maddox (foot), Brian Branch (Achilles) and Kerby Joseph (knee). The Lions have elevated Jalen Mills from the practice squad to start at strong safety in Sunday's game against the Jets.

Kennedy suffered a season-ending MCL injury in his right knee during the Lions' Week 5 win over the Cardinals. His move to IR opens a spot on Detroit's 53-man roster, and in his absence, Jacob Saylors is in line to take over return duties on kickoffs and punts.

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Mahogany suffered a hip injury Week 1 against the Saints, and he will now be forced to miss at least one contest as a result. In his absence, Miles Frazier will operate as the top reserve option behind Ben Bartch and Tate Ratledge at offensive guard in Buffalo.

Miller is dealing with an apparent knee injury, and he will be forced to sit out Week 2. In his absence, Larry Borom will likely draw the start at right tackle versus the Bills.

Manu continues to recover from a knee injury he sustained in October of 2025. He's required to miss at least the first four games of the regular season, meaning the earliest he can return is Week 5 against the Cardinals on Sunday, Oct. 11.

Saylors sat out his first game of the season in Week 9 due to a neck injury, but it now looks like he's on track to return to game action in Week 10. With teammate Sione Vaki tending to an ankle issue, it appears possible Saylors could be called upon for a larger share of offensive snaps than usual versus the Patriots.

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Izien recovered quickly from his illness and was able to pass the physical required to return to practice. The defensive back is all set to resume his role as a depth piece in the Lions' secondary.

The Lions opened Joseph's 21-day practice window to return from the PUP list two weeks ago, so they have just one week to activate him before they'd be required to put him back on the shelf for the rest of the season. He's already been ruled out for Sunday's game versus the Patriots, but managing a full practice Thursday or Friday would still probably go a long way toward convincing the team he's ready for game action again.

Conklin has been used sparingly through the first two games of the regular season, and the veteran tight end will be a healthy scratch Sunday against the team he played for from 2022 to 2024. Brock Wright and Jackson Meeks will provide depth at the position behind Sam LaPorta, and Conklin's next opportunity to play is Week 4 against the Panthers on Sunday, Oct. 4.

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Coach Dan Campbell said Rakestraw could practice this week, and he has a chance to a play Sunday against the undefeated Vikings. Rock Ya-Sin filled in at cornerback following Rakestraw's injury and would be in line for increased snaps on defense if the latter is unable to face Minnesota.

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McCreary appears to have gotten hurt during practice late in the week, as he wasn't listed on the injury report Wednesday or Thursday. Now that he's been tagged with a questionable designation, the veteran cornerback's status for Sunday is up in the air. McCreary has logged every Lions defensive snap in each of his past three games, but if he's out against the Vikings, Christian Izien could take on a starting role.

The defensive end exited an early August practice session with a groin issue, returned approximately two weeks later, and then surprisingly missed practice again Wednesday. Moore was selected in the second round by the Lions in April's draft after a breakout season at Michigan in 2025, when he recorded 30 tackles, including 10.0 sacks, two forced fumbles and three pass breakups. He should be able to compete for at least a rotational role in Detroit once he's healthy.

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Goff is making his first appearance on the injury report this season, but he at least logged some reps Wednesday as he tends to a health concern. A return to full participation Thursday and/or Friday should put him in the clear for Sunday's game versus the Patriots.

Several Lions stars did not practice Wednesday, but Gibbs' absence stood out because his shoulder issue had not been reported previously. Gibbs' practice participation now becomes a significant item for fantasy managers to monitor as the week progresses. The Lions head to Minnesota to face the Vikings on Sunday.

Vaki played 20 offensive snaps during Sunday's game at Miami, and it seems like he may have hurt his ankle at some point along the way. He'll probably have to return to practice Thursday or Friday to have a realistic chance of suiting up in Week 10 versus the Patriots.

Branch played all 57 of the Lions' defensive snaps in Week 9, and the fact that he was present for Wednesday's practice session suggests his injury is likely not overly severe. If he can upgrade to full participation at practice Thursday or Friday, there's a good chance he'll avoid carrying an injury designation into the weekend.

The strong safety participated in 34 percent of the Lions' defensive plays but did not appear otherwise in the final box score. Thursday marked Jackson's first preseason action, as the second-year safety was placed on injured reserve in early August of his rookie season due to a leg injury.

LaPorta was rested in the team's exhibition opener, but a hip injury suffered in practice kept him on the sideline for the final two preseason games. He was able to return to drills as of Aug. 25, but it's unclear if he's put the issue behind him. LaPorta is entering the final year of his rookie contract, so he has every incentive to be as healthy as possible for a Week 1 matchup with the Saints on Sunday, Sept. 13.

St. Brown also was limited on all three of the Lions' Week 9 practice reports due to a rib injury, but he was able to suit up this past Sunday at Miami and log a typical 75 percent snap share en route to eight catches (on 10 targets) for 86 yards. Friday's injury report will determine if he enters the weekend with a designation for Sunday's game against the Patriots.

St. Brown also was limited on all three of the Lions' Week 9 practice reports due to a rib injury, but he was able to suit up this past Sunday at Miami and log a typical 75 percent snap share en route to eight catches (on 10 targets) for 86 yards. Friday's injury report will determine if he enters the weekend with a designation for Sunday's game against the Patriots.

Branch played all 57 of the Lions' defensive snaps in Week 9, and the fact that he was present for Wednesday's practice session suggests his injury is likely not overly severe. If he can upgrade to full participation at practice Thursday or Friday, there's a good chance he'll avoid carrying an injury designation into the weekend.

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Saylors sat out his first game of the season in Week 9 due to a neck injury, but it now looks like he's on track to return to game action in Week 10. With teammate Sione Vaki tending to an ankle issue, it appears possible Saylors could be called upon for a larger share of offensive snaps than usual versus the Patriots.

Goff is making his first appearance on the injury report this season, but he at least logged some reps Wednesday as he tends to a health concern. A return to full participation Thursday and/or Friday should put him in the clear for Sunday's game versus the Patriots.

The Lions opened Joseph's 21-day practice window to return from the PUP list two weeks ago, so they have just one week to activate him before they'd be required to put him back on the shelf for the rest of the season. He's already been ruled out for Sunday's game versus the Patriots, but managing a full practice Thursday or Friday would still probably go a long way toward convincing the team he's ready for game action again.

Vaki played 20 offensive snaps during Sunday's game at Miami, and it seems like he may have hurt his ankle at some point along the way. He'll probably have to return to practice Thursday or Friday to have a realistic chance of suiting up in Week 10 versus the Patriots.

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Joseph has yet to play in 2026 due to a lingering knee injury suffered in 2025. With the 25-year-old out for Week 10, the Lions have one more week before his 21-day practice window closes. If Joseph is unable to return, he will stay on the PUP for the remainder of the season. Chuck Clark will continue to start in his place.

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Saylors carried a questionable designation heading into this contest, though he won't be on the field in Week 9, marking his first absence of the 2026 campaign. With Sione Vaki (ankle) available, Saylors likely wouldn't have been very involved, regardless.

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Campbell suffered a neck injury while making a tackle in the third quarter of last Sunday's win over Minnesota and remains in the hospital. Detroit head coach Dan Campbell shared Friday that the linebacker continues to improve, but his placement on IR means he'll miss at least the team's next four games. K.J. Britt, who Detroit signed off New England's practice squad Wednesday, may be asked to immediately step into a starting role.

After a round of limited practices this week, St. Brown's status for Sunday is in question. It's worth wondering if the Lions could sit the star wideout against a perceived inferior opponent to help his ribs heal. If St. Brown does miss Sunday's game, Jameson Williams and Isaac TeSlaa would play every-down roles at wide receiver, with Sam LaPorta possibly benefiting the most as the player who runs his routes in the same area of the field as St. Brown.

Mays sustained a low-ankle sprain in the Lions' Week 8 win over the Vikings. The center was unable to participate in Week 9 prep while dealing with the issue and will not be able to suit up for Sunday's game. Juice Scruggs is set to start at center while Mays is sidelined.

Reed suffered a hip injury in the fourth quarter of the Lions' Week 8 win over the Vikings. The cornerback was unable to practice during Week 9 prep and will not suit up for Sunday's contest. Rock Ya-Sin is set to start opposite rookie Ennis Rakestraw against the Dolphins.

Wonnum was unable to clear the NFL's five-step concussion protocol ahead of Sunday's contest. The defensive end did not practice at all during Week 9 prep and remains sidelined with the head injury.

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Saylors logged three consecutive limited sessions during Week 9 prep as he manages his neck injury. The running back could be the sole reserve option behind Jahmyr Gibbs if he suits up for Sunday's game, as Sione Vaki (ankle) has already been ruled out.

Joseph was a limited participant throughout Week 9 prep. Despite maintaining consistent practice participation, the free safety will not be activated from the reserve/PUP list for Sunday's game. The Lions will likely wait until Joseph has logged multiple full sessions and is fully ready to return to the field. Chuck Clark will continue to start at free safety opposite Brian Branch.

Vaki appeared on Friday's injury report as a non-participant with a new ankle injury. The backup running back had 70 total yards in the Lions' Week 8 win over the Vikings. If Vaki must miss Sunday's contest, Jacob Saylors (neck) or a practice-squad elevation will likely play the reserve role behind Jahmyr Gibbs.

St. Brown maintained his activity level from Wednesday's walkthrough as he navigates a rib injury, which was likely the reason for his brief time on the sideline this past Sunday against the Vikings. He thus has one more chance to get back to full Friday, or else he'll be at risk of entering the weekend with a designation for Sunday's game at Miami.

It's unclear if Branch remains in the concussion protocol, but his full participation puts him on track to play Sunday against the Dolphins after he was injured last Sunday against Minnesota.

Joseph remains on the reserve/PUP list, and coach Dan Campbell already said earlier this week that the safety will not play against Miami on Sunday.

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St. Brown made a brief exit during this past Sunday's win against the Vikings due to an undisclosed injury but was able to return, finishing with seven catches (on eight targets) for 46 yards and one carry for 10 yards. The nature of the health concern has been revealed, but his ability to practice in some capacity Wednesday generally bodes well for his status ahead of Sunday's game at Miami.

Campbell had to be carted off the field on a spinal board after he took a hit to the head/neck area while making a tackle during Sunday's game versus the Vikings, and he remains in the hospital for evaluation. While updates from him and the Lions have been positive thus far, it still seems likely he'll be facing an extended absence, and barring something extraordinary, he'll at least be out in Week 9 at Miami.

This move was anticipated, as Rolder suffered a season-ending hamstring injury in the Lions' win over Minnesota on Sunday. The rookie linebacker logged a career-high 17 defensive snaps and notched his first NFL sack in that contest, so his injury comes at an unfortunate time. Rolder will now turn his focus toward rehabbing the injury in order to be ready for offseason activities in 2027.

Joseph returned to practice in Week 8 in limited fashion, after beginning the season on the reserve/PUP list with a knee injury suffered during the 2025 season. The 25-year-old appears to be on track in his practice progression as he began reps with the scout team Tuesday. His next opportunity to play will be in Week 10 against New England on Sunday, Nov. 15.

Mays missed the first five games of the season while recovering from a fractured wrist and is now in danger of missing additional time. Juice Scruggs will likely take over as the team's starting center while Mays is sidelined.

Reed suffered a hip injury late in the fourth quarter of Sunday's game against the Vikings and did not return to the contest. The cornerback's injury appears to be significant enough for Reed to be ruled out of practice a day ahead of time. It remains unclear whether or not the starting cornerback will participate in any practice sessions ahead of the team's Week 9 game against the Dolphins.

Detroit won't share any further information on Campbell's status while evaluations remain ongoing, but head coach Dan Campbell said he met with the linebacker and his family at the hospital following Sunday's 19-15 win over the Vikings and noted that everyone was in good spirits, per Colton Pouncy of The Athletic. After finishing off a tackle of Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson in the fourth quarter, Campbell remained face down on the turf for several minutes before he was strapped to a spinal board and carted off the field.

Saylor's neck injury is significant enough that Coach Dan Campbell felt comfortable declaring him doubtful to practice multiple days in advance. The kick returner/reserve running back couldn't return to Sunday's win over the Vikings because of the injury, and it remains unclear how long he will miss.

Rolder sustained the season-ending injury during Detroit's win over the Vikings on Sunday. The 22-year-old will finish his rookie campaign with 11 tackles (seven solo), including 1.0 sacks, and will now shift his focus to getting healthy for next season.

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Branch and D.J. Wonnum collided with each other in the second quarter, and both players have been diagnosed with concussions. Keith Abney should see more defensive snaps in Branch's absence.

With Mays out of the game, Juice Scruggs has taken over at center for the Lions.

Reed suffered a hip injury in the fourth quarter and is being checked by training staff to determine whether he can return. Khalil Dorsey and Rock Ya-Sin are candidates for more defensive snaps while Reed is out of the game.

Wonnum and Brian Branch collided with each other in the second quarter, and both players are now in the league's concussion protocol. Derrick Moore, Trevor Nowaske and Eric O'Neill are in line for more defensive snaps in Wonnum's absence.

Campbell suffered the injury while making a tackle late in the third quarter and was carted off the field. Jimmy Rolder and Amen Ogbongbemiga will both see more defensive snaps in Campbell's absence.

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Saylors sustained a neck injury in the first half, and the issue is severe enough for him to be sidelined for the rest of Sunday's game. Sione Vaki will be the lone backup option to Jahmyr Gibbs the rest of the way in Saylors' absence.

Rolder sustained the injury late in the third quarter while attempting a tackle. He was initially tagged as questionable but didn't return, and he'll undergo more tests to determine the severity of his injury. The Lions' next game is Week 9 against the Dolphins on Nov. 8.

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Pacheco has been sidelined for the entirety of the regular season to this point after undergoing back surgery in September. Sione Vaki has been working as the Lions' clear RB2, though Jahmyr Gibbs has been a true workhorse out of the backfield. If Pacheco does return at the end of the regular season, it's hard to envision him having a big impact coming off back surgery.

Joseph -- who opened the regular season on the reserve/PUP list while recovering from a knee injury he suffered during the 2025 campaign -- was cleared to return to practice Wednesday and was limited in all three sessions of Week 8 prep. He's not quite ready to be activated from the PUP, but head coach Dan Campbell said Friday that Joseph has "responded well to individual work," per Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. Joseph's next opportunity to make his 2026 debut is Week 9 against the Dolphins on Sunday, Nov. 8.

McCreary appears to have gotten hurt during practice late in the week, as he wasn't listed on the injury report Wednesday or Thursday. Now that he's been tagged with a questionable designation, the veteran cornerback's status for Sunday is up in the air. McCreary has logged every Lions defensive snap in each of his past three games, but if he's out against the Vikings, Christian Izien could take on a starting role.

The Lions opened the 21-day practice window for Joseph on Wednesday. While he has been practicing in a limited capacity, there's still a chance he won't be cleared to suit up for Sunday's NFC North clash with the Vikings. If that is the case, Joseph's next opportunity to play will come in Week 9 in Miami.

St. Brown logged a typical 78 percent snap share during this past Sunday's win against the Packers, reeling off nine catches for 153 yards on 11 targets in the process. On Monday, head coach Dan Campbell told Richard Silva of The Detroit News that St. Brown tweaked his ankle in that contest but should practice by Thursday. As a result, St. Brown's absence Wednesday doesn't come as a surprise, and he should mix into drills in some capacity Thursday.

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Several Lions stars did not practice Wednesday, but Gibbs' absence stood out because his shoulder issue had not been reported previously. Gibbs' practice participation now becomes a significant item for fantasy managers to monitor as the week progresses. The Lions head to Minnesota to face the Vikings on Sunday.

Joseph opened the regular season on the reserve/PUP list due to a knee injury that he suffered in Week 6 of the 2025 season. He's progressed enough in his recovery to return to practice and was limited in Wednesday's session, and there's a chance that he's activated from the PUP list before Sunday's NFC North tilt against the Vikings. The addition of Joseph would bolster a Lions secondary that welcomed back Brian Branch, who picked off Jordan Love in Detroit's Week 7 win over Green Bay.

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Campbell is planning for St. Brown to rest during the Lions' first Week 8 session Wednesday, but the star wideout should be able to practice during the subsequent two days to put himself on a path to play Sunday against the undefeated Vikings. The ankle injury likely explains why he saw a slight decline in playing time -- he logged 53 of 68 offensive snaps (78 percent) -- but St. Brown still delivered for fantasy managers in the win over Green Bay. Though he was held out of the end zone for the third game in a row, St. Brown finished with nine receptions for a season-high 153 yards.

Coach Dan Campbell said Rakestraw could practice this week, and he has a chance to a play Sunday against the undefeated Vikings. Rock Ya-Sin filled in at cornerback following Rakestraw's injury and would be in line for increased snaps on defense if the latter is unable to face Minnesota.

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Prior to leaving in the second half, the cornerback recorded two tackles. Rock Ya-Sin and Khalil Dorsey would be in line for increased snaps at cornerback the rest of the way against Green Bay.

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The Lions did not practice for their first session following the Week 6 bye, but it's a promising sign to see Branch listed as a full participant. He's in the final stages of his recovery from a torn Achilles that he suffered in December of 2025, and he could be activated from the Lions' reserve/PUP list ahead of Sunday's NFC North tilt against the Packers.

Joseph has been sidelined for more than a year after sustaining a knee injury in the Week 6 meeting with the Chiefs during the 2025 campaign. While there was hope he would be ready to get back on the field early in the 2026 season, he remains on the reserve/PUP list. With Kerby still out of commission, Chuck Clark is projected to continue handling most of the work at free safety for the foreseeable future.

Bartch has already missed three games due to a foot injury that he sustained against the Bills in Week 2. While on IR, he'll be forced to miss at least four games, so Week 11 against the Buccaneers on Sunday, Nov. 22, is the earliest he can return.

White was diagnosed with a broken forearm following the Lions' Week 5 win over the Cardinals. He'll be required to miss at least the next four games on IR, and while he's likely to be sidelined past that minimum window, there's optimism that the veteran linebacker will return at some point this season. Malcolm Rodriguez is the next man up at linebacker in White's absence.

Kennedy suffered a season-ending MCL injury in his right knee during the Lions' Week 5 win over the Cardinals. His move to IR opens a spot on Detroit's 53-man roster, and in his absence, Jacob Saylors is in line to take over return duties on kickoffs and punts.

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White broke his forearm during the first half of Sunday's 45-21 win over the Cardinals. He'll likely be placed on injured reserve over the coming days, but Campbell has at least left the door open for White to return this season once fully healthy. Malcolm Rodriguez figures to step into a starting role at linebacker for as long as White is sidelined.

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Kennedy sustained the knee injury while returning a punt during the second quarter of Sunday's 45-21 win over the Cardinals. The veteran wide receiver is an unrestricted free agent this offseason, but he'll nonetheless shift his focus toward being fully healthy for the 2027 season. Jacob Saylors will take over return duties on kickoffs and may also work as a returner on punts, given the Lions' hesitation to use Amon-Ra St. Brown in a full-time capacity in that role, per Bianchi.

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White sustained the injury in the first half, and head coach Dan Campbell said that "it doesn't look good" for the linebacker following the victory. White's injury will likely require surgery, and it's unclear exactly how long he'd be sidelined, if that's the case.

Meeks appeared in the Lions' first four games of the 2026 campaign but will be a healthy scratch in Week 5. The 23-year-old hasn't had a productive season, catching his only target for eight yards.

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Kennedy suffered a knee injury early in the second quarter and was evaluated for it. The injury is significant enough to keep the wide receiver out of the entire second half, leaving Amon-Ra St. Brown to take over return duties in his stead.

A foot injury will prevent Bartch from playing in a third consecutive game. The Lions are on a bye for Week 6, so he'll have additional time to recover ahead of Detroit's Week 7 home tilt against the Packers on Sunday, Oct. 25.

Branch returned to practice Wednesday after the Lions opened up his 21-day practice window. The strong safety managed to log limited practice in all three Week 5 prep sessions but is not quite ready to return to the field. Christian Izien will continue to start at strong safety while Branch puts the finishing touches on his recovery.

Mays' 21-day window to return from injured reserve opened Wednesday, and he was a limited practice participant all week. He's not quite ready to return, but with the Lions on a bye for Week 6, Mays' next chance to play is Week 7 against Green Bay on Sunday, Oct. 25.

Ya-Sin has not practiced since he sustained a hamstring injury during the Lions' Week 4 loss to the Panthers. In the cornerback's absence, Khalil Dorsey or Keith Abney is set to be the primary backup at outside cornerback behind starters D.J. Reed and Ennis Rakestraw.

Branch was limited in Wednesday's practice, but it was an encouraging sign to see the fourth-year pro back on the field following a lengthy recovery from a torn Achilles that he sustained in early December of 2025. The Lions' secondary has been one of the worst in the league this season, and while Branch's return would be a significant upgrade to the unit, he'll likely need to log multiple full practices before being activated from the reserve/PUP list. While it's unlikely he'd play, Branch's first opportunity to make his 2026 debut is Sunday against the Cardinals.

The move opens a 21-day window during which Mays can be officially activated from IR before he'd have to stay there for the rest of the campaign. Once he has fully recovered from the wrist fracture he sustained during the preseason, he projects to take over the starting center job from free-agent acquisition Juice Scruggs.

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Ya-Sin hurt his hamstring during Sunday night's contest at Carolina, and it looks like he is likely going to have to miss at least one game as he recovers. If Ya-Sin does log at least one absence, Roger McCreary figures to see an uptick in snaps in the secondary.

"Close" is a relative term, so it's unclear how close Branch actually is, considering he remains on the reserve/PUP list and has yet to begin practicing. It sounds like that could change next week. The Lions have been relying on Roger McCreary at slot cornerback in Branch's absence.

Mays was placed on IR on Aug. 30. The center fractured his wrist in the preseason but is set to return to the active roster soon. If Mays can get back in action after the Lions' Week 6 bye, he should be able to reclaim the starting center role from Juice Scruggs to boost the team's interior offensive line.

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Conklin has been used sparingly through the first two games of the regular season, and the veteran tight end will be a healthy scratch Sunday against the team he played for from 2022 to 2024. Brock Wright and Jackson Meeks will provide depth at the position behind Sam LaPorta, and Conklin's next opportunity to play is Week 4 against the Panthers on Sunday, Oct. 4.

Harper has not been able to practice since sustaining an ankle injury during the Lions' Week 2 loss to the Bills. The safety departing for IR leaves the Lions' secondary dangerously low on defensive backs, now without Harper, Avonte Maddox (foot), Brian Branch (Achilles) and Kerby Joseph (knee). The Lions have elevated Jalen Mills from the practice squad to start at strong safety in Sunday's game against the Jets.

Maddox will miss the rest of the 2026 season due to a left foot injury he sustained in the Lions' Week 2 loss to the Bills. He'll shift his focus toward being fully healthy for the 2027 campaign, though he'll enter the offseason as an unrestricted free agent. With Maddox, Brian Branch (Achilles) and Kerby Joseph (knee) all sidelined, Thomas Harper and Chuck Clark will serve as Detroit's starting safeties for the time being.

It's not looking good for the safety/cornerback, who had to leave Thursday's 41-31 loss to the Bills during the first half. Maddox had started the first two games at strong safety for Detroit with Brian Branch (Achilles) beginning the season on the reserve/PUP list. It appears now that the Lions may have to turn to Thomas Harper to man the position.

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Miller is dealing with an apparent knee injury, and he will be forced to sit out Week 2. In his absence, Larry Borom will likely draw the start at right tackle versus the Bills.

Mahogany suffered a hip injury Week 1 against the Saints, and he will now be forced to miss at least one contest as a result. In his absence, Miles Frazier will operate as the top reserve option behind Ben Bartch and Tate Ratledge at offensive guard in Buffalo.

Reed is dealing with a foot injury, so the questionable tag isn't much of a surprise. If Reed can't get on the field versus the Bills, Roger McCreary or Keith Abney could see more action opposite Rock Ya-Sin.

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Mahogany suffered a lower-body injury in the first half of the team's Week 1 victory, and he was unable to return to the contest. The offensive lineman was ruled out with a knee injury, and the imaging results appear to have ruled out any significant damage to the knee. Head coach Dan Campbell explained that the team is "out of the woods" quite yet though, stating that Mahogany may be dealing with a hip injury instead. The Lions are set to face the Bills on Thursday night in Buffalo, so Mahogany may have a tough time being available for Week 2.

Pacheco was already on injured reserve, but he's looking at a lengthy recovery. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the running back is expected to be sidelined 12 weeks, giving him a "chance" to return sometime in December. With Pacheco sidelined Week 1 against the Saints, Jahmyr Gibbs handled 29 of the team's 31 backfield carries, turning them into 156 yards and two touchdowns. Gibbs also caught all five of his targets for 30 yards and played 57 of 77 offensive snaps. Sione Vaki played 22 snaps on offense but touched the ball just three times for 18 yards. Gibbs cemented himself as the premier player in fantasy football.

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Mays was placed on IR during the Aug. 30 cutdown day. The center fractured his wrist during the preseason, but is eyeing a quick month and a half of downtime before being able to return to protecting Jared Goff. While Mays remains on IR, Juice Scruggs will be the starting safety for the Lions.

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LaPorta was rested in the team's exhibition opener, but a hip injury suffered in practice kept him on the sideline for the final two preseason games. He was able to return to drills as of Aug. 25, but it's unclear if he's put the issue behind him. LaPorta is entering the final year of his rookie contract, so he has every incentive to be as healthy as possible for a Week 1 matchup with the Saints on Sunday, Sept. 13.

Pacheco was placed on injured reserve with his back issue and will miss at least the first four games of the regular season. It sounds like his absence could extend beyond Week 5 when he's first eligible to play. In the meantime, Jacob Saylors looks like the direct backup to Jahmyr Gibbs in the backfield. Gibbs could see some heavy snaps this season after the departure of steady veteran running mate David Montgomery over the offseason.

Manu continues to recover from a knee injury he sustained in October of 2025. He's required to miss at least the first four games of the regular season, meaning the earliest he can return is Week 5 against the Cardinals on Sunday, Oct. 11.

Niese suffered a right leg injury in the Lions' preseason game against the Commanders on Aug. 22. The offensive lineman was waived Sunday with an injury designation and went unclaimed. Niese will now spend the entirety of the 2026 regular season on IR unless he is waived with an injury settlement.

Branch spent the entirety of training camp on the active/PUP list, enabling the safety to be placed on the reserve list to begin the regular season. The 24-year-old will now be required to miss the first four weeks of the season at least before he can return to the Lions' active roster. With fellow safety Kerby Joseph (knee) also on the reserve/PUP list, the tandem of Avonte Maddox and Chuck Clark will likely start the season in the Lions' secondary.

Mays suffered a fractured wrist during the preseason, and he will now be forced to miss at least four games to open the regular season. The 27-year-old was expected to operate as the team's starting center this year, so in his absence, Seth McLaughlin will get a chance to handle that role to open 2026.

Joseph was placed on the active/PUP list in late July and missed the entirety of the preseason due to a lingering knee injury he suffered during Week 6 of the 2025 campaign. The safety will need to miss the first four weeks of the season at least before he is eligible to return to the Lions' active roster. With Brian Branch (Achilles) also on the reserve/PUP list, Avonte Maddox and Chuck Clark will likely be the starting safety duo for the Lions' Week 1 contest against the Saints.

McLaughlin suffered a concussion during Saturday's preseason finale against the Colts. The backup center will need to be regularly checked by an independent neurologist to progress through the protocol and return to full contact practices.

The defensive end exited an early August practice session with a groin issue, returned approximately two weeks later, and then surprisingly missed practice again Wednesday. Moore was selected in the second round by the Lions in April's draft after a breakout season at Michigan in 2025, when he recorded 30 tackles, including 10.0 sacks, two forced fumbles and three pass breakups. He should be able to compete for at least a rotational role in Detroit once he's healthy.

Pacheco has been out of action with an MCL sprain, and although he seems to have moved past the knee issue he is now dealing with another injury. Campbell noted that Pacheco was feeling better Wednesday, but further details were not provided, so it's unclear if the latest setback will affect his availability for Week 1.

The defensive end suffered a back injury July 29 and did not return at any point during training camp. Turner will now likely have to miss the 2026 campaign unless he reaches an injury settlement with the team. The former Cowboy missed the 2025 campaign due to a rib injury.

It's not immediately clear what kind of injury Clark suffered, but the timing of the transaction means he's now in line to spend the entire 2026 season on IR unless he works out an injury settlement with the Lions. His departure could open up more opportunities for fellow free-agent acquisition Amen Ogbongbemiga.

Coach Dan Campbell said last Thursday that LaPorta was tending to a hip injury, and his status for the regular-season opener wasn't guaranteed. Considering the tight end was back on the practice field less than a week later, he's trending in a positive direction. LaPorta still has more than two weeks to get cleared for Week 1.

Niese had his right leg crushed by a defender in Saturday's contest and is feared to have suffered an MCL sprain in his right knee. The reserve center has been a versatile piece of the Lions' offensive line and will likely need to miss time with the injury.

The cornerback suffered an upper-body injury during the first half of Detroit's Aug. 13 preseason loss to Cincinnati, but this appears to be a new issue. Rakestraw missed the 2025 campaign after injuring his shoulder during a training camp practice.

The fourth-round rookie was injured early in camp and has missed the past three weeks with a strained hamstring. It sounds like he's going to miss the remainder of camp and the preseason. As a rookie, Rolder is expected to work as a depth linebacker and special-teams player.

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The strong safety participated in 34 percent of the Lions' defensive plays but did not appear otherwise in the final box score. Thursday marked Jackson's first preseason action, as the second-year safety was placed on injured reserve in early August of his rookie season due to a leg injury.

Harper logged 39 defensive snaps and 12 special-teams snaps in the contest. The free safety played 56 percent of the defensive snaps for the Lions. Harper's ability to consistently take down the ball carrier solo may earn him more snaps in subsequent preseason games, such as in next Saturday's showdown with the Commanders.

Branch continues to recover from a torn Achilles that he suffered in December, which prompted the Lions to place the 2023 second-rounder on the active/PUP list to start training camp. He won't play in any of the Lions' three exhibition games, but depending on how his recovery goes over the next month, Branch could be available for Detroit's regular-season opener against New Orleans on Sunday, Sept. 13.

Campbell relayed that Joseph is currently away from the team to attend to a personal matter but added that the fifth-year safety's rehab from his knee injury is "coming along very well." Joseph missed the final 13 games of the regular season due to a knee injury and opened camp on the active/PUP list. A stint on injured reserve may not be necessary for the 2022 third-rounder, though it's unclear whether he'll suit up for the Lions' regular-season opener against the Saints on Sunday, Sept. 13.

Vaki was poked in the eye in the same practice and will now need some time to deal with the injuries. He's competing for a role in the backfield behind Jahmyr Gibbs (back) and Isiah Pacheco this summer. A 2024 fourth-round pick, Vaki has seven career regular-season carries for 18 empty yards.

Izien recovered quickly from his illness and was able to pass the physical required to return to practice. The defensive back is all set to resume his role as a depth piece in the Lions' secondary.

Moore left Sunday's practice session early with a groin issue, but it appears to be something the defensive end should be able to quickly overcome. With the second-round rookie out for at least a week, Tyler Lacy, Tyre West and Trevor Nowaske will likely continue to see greater opportunities with the second-team defense.

The promising rookie left Friday's practice due to the issue. If Rolder can return before the start of the regular season, he could yet prove he is a reliable depth option at linebacker for the Lions. The recent signing of Devin White makes the competition tougher, but the team is always looking for depth at a position it has been notoriously injury-prone with.