The Detroit Lions have been making significant moves to address the mounting injuries on their roster, particularly placing key players on injured reserve and bringing in fresh talent to fill the gaps. The latest moves highlight the team's strategy to mitigate the impact of these injuries and strengthen their lineup for the upcoming weeks.
The Lions have placed two pivotal defensive players, defensive end Marcus Davenport and linebacker Derrick Barnes, on injured reserve. Davenport suffered a torn triceps during Detroit's Week 3 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, a season-ending injury confirmed by head coach Dan Campbell. "Davenport will be out, looks like that's a season-ender there," Campbell said, as reported by ClutchPoints. Barnes, on the other hand, sustained a knee injury after a low block from Cardinals offensive tackle Paris Johnson Jr. that will keep him sidelined for a significant period. Campbell mentioned, "We know he's going to need to be down for a little while while the knee heals. And then once it heals, is he going to need surgery?" according to Pride Of Detroit.
In a bid to replenish their ranks, the Lions have promoted wide receiver Tim Patrick from the practice squad to the 53-man roster. Patrick's inclusion was anticipated given his performances in recent weeks as a game-day elevation. "He fits us just the way he is, the way he works, his attention to detail, and he brings a little something different to us," Campbell praised Patrick, as noted by Pride Of Detroit.
But it's not just about filling the roster; it's also about strategic depth. Cornerback Morice Norris was re-signed to the practice squad, a move that could prove beneficial given Detroit's current injury woes in the secondary. Norris, an undrafted free agent from Fresno State, made a positive impression during training camp and is known for his versatility to play both cornerback and safety positions. This was highlighted in a report by Lions Wire.
The Lions' linebacker depth will be tested, but there is optimism within the organization. With Barnes out, the team is expected to rely more on players like Malcolm Rodriguez, Jalen Reeves-Maybin, Ben Niemann, and Trevor Nowaske, along with starters Jack Campbell and Alex Anzalone. "We've got a lot of depth, we trust every one of those players in there," Campbell explained. "It hurts, it's gonna hurt to lose Barnes. But if it's gotta happen in any room, the linebacker room gives you faith." This sentiment was echoed in multiple sources, including The Oakland Press.
Meanwhile, Davenport’s absence will be significant, but the Lions plan to have Josh Paschal step in to fill the void. Paschal has shown promise, and the team believes he can rise to the occasion in Davenport’s stead.
With these roster moves, the Lions are gearing up to stay resilient despite the injuries and are looking to maintain their competitiveness as they prepare to face the Seattle Seahawks in their upcoming Monday Night Football showdown. The road ahead might be challenging, but the Lions are ready to roar with their new additions and existing depth.
What other sites are saying about this topic
Lions place 2 defensive starters on I.R., sign WR Tim Patrick to the active roster from Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire
Lions losing two key defenders to injured reserve from ClutchPoints
Detroit Lions place 2 players on IR, sign Tim Patrick to 53-man roster from Jeremy Reisman, Pride Of Detroit
Detroit Lions place Derrick Barnes, Marcus Davenport on injured reserve from Detroit Free Press