Live Report: Lions’ Week 16 Practice Update
As the Detroit Lions gear up for their Week 16 clash against the Chicago Bears, their first practice report provides key insights into player availability and injury updates. Head coach Dan Campbell confirmed before Wednesday’s session that several players would be held out, with many absences precautionary in nature.
“We’re resting a bunch of players today,” Campbell stated. Observations during the open portion of practice aligned with this plan.
Players Resting:
The following players were non-participants (NP) in Wednesday’s practice:
- Brian Branch (calf)
- Taylor Decker (rest)
- Graham Glasgow (knee)
- David Montgomery (knee)
- Frank Ragnow (rest)
- DJ Reader (rest)
- Za’Darius Smith (rest)
- Amon-Ra St. Brown (rest)
- Kevin Zeitler (rest)
Branch, notably limited in last Sunday’s game, is now confirmed to have a calf issue. Campbell labeled his absence as precautionary but his status for Thursday’s practice remains pivotal.
Injury Highlights:
- David Montgomery is still seeking a third opinion on his injured knee. His practice status was anticipated, and his availability for Week 16 is uncertain.
- Amon-Ra St. Brown, who battled food poisoning last week, is among those resting.
- Taylor Decker and DJ Reader had prior knee and shoulder concerns, respectively. Their absences on Wednesday were likely precautionary as well.
- Graham Glasgow, dealing with post-game soreness, was also held out for rest.
Full Participants (FP):
Some positive news came from players who participated fully:
- Ifeatu Melifonwu (hand) – activated as part of his 21-day return window from IR.
- Trevor Nowaske (concussion) – cleared protocol after missing the game against Buffalo.
A Season Update on John Cominsky
The Lions are likely to finish the season without John Cominsky, who has been out since early training camp due to a knee injury.
“I think it’s unlikely,” Campbell said. “Man, he’s tried. He’s been rehabbing and doing everything he can. It’s just that last little hump that’s been tough to get over.”
Stay tuned for Thursday’s practice report as the Lions finalize their plans for Sunday’s critical matchup.