The Detroit Lions continue to battle through a relentless wave of injuries that has impacted their roster for most of the season. Despite the attrition, particularly on defense, the team has managed to string together an impressive 11-game winning streak, a testament to their depth and resilience.
The injuries have forced the Lions to lean on a variety of players, including Ezekiel Turner, Trevor Nowaske, David Long, and, more recently, Kwon Alexander and Jamal Adams, to fill critical gaps. With Jack Campbell as the lone remaining starter not on injured reserve, he has taken on a pivotal role as the defense’s play-caller, shouldering a massive workload.
Despite these challenges, the Lions’ defense has continued to perform admirably. Linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard credited this success to the players’ confidence in defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn’s scheme.
“I think it’s a trickle-down. When the players see the belief that we have in A.G., and no matter who it is, what the call is, we expect a certain standard and we actually live and breathe it,” Sheppard explained. “I’ve had guys tell me, ‘Guys talk about this, but the way we practice here, the way we prepare, this is different.’ When they see the belief, when they see us living these things, I think it’s a trickle-down, and these guys buy in. It’s almost like, without knowing, they’re doing everything you tell them.”
There was some positive news on the injury front on Wednesday, as three starters who missed last Thursday’s victory over Green Bay returned to practice. DJ Reader was the only starter absent from the open portion of practice, though he was seen working on the side with trainers.
Lions Week 15 Wednesday Injury Report:
- DJ Reader – NP (Shoulder)
- Josh Paschal – LP (Knee)
- Levi Onwuzurike – LP (Hamstring)
- Taylor Decker – FP (Knee)
- Alim McNeill – FP (Concussion)
As the Lions prepare for their Week 15 showdown, their ability to overcome adversity will be key in maintaining their winning streak and pushing closer to their postseason goals.
