The Detroit Lions’ recent Wednesday practices have been light, often serving as rest days for veterans. While these early-week injury reports aren’t always indicative of player availability, Thursday reports typically provide a clearer picture, especially when new injuries appear.
Thursday’s practice report brought both encouraging news and lingering concerns for the Lions as they prepare for Week 16. Several players who rested on Wednesday, including Taylor Decker, DJ Reader, Za’Darius Smith, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Kevin Zeitler, returned as full participants.
Notable Injuries and Updates:
Graham Glasgow (knee): Glasgow, injured during last week’s game, has now missed two practices. Head coach Dan Campbell described him as “a little sore” but missing consecutive sessions casts doubt on his availability for Sunday.
David Montgomery (knee): Montgomery is seeking a third opinion on his MCL injury, making it almost certain he will miss Sunday’s game against his former team. A stint on injured reserve remains possible.
Frank Ragnow (back): After resting Wednesday, Ragnow was listed with a back issue on Thursday. Despite a history of injuries, this season has been relatively clean for him, and there’s cautious optimism he’ll play Sunday.
Brian Branch (calf): Branch moved from non-participant on Wednesday to limited on Thursday, an encouraging sign for his availability.
Jalen Reeves-Maybin (neck): Limited in practice Thursday, his participation marks the start of his 21-day IR evaluation window.
Trevor Nowaske (concussion): Nowaske logged consecutive full practices and is on track to return Sunday.
Ifeatu Melifonwu (hand): A full participant, Melifonwu’s 21-day IR evaluation window continues, with a slim chance of him playing this week.
While the Lions welcomed key players back to practice, the potential absence of Glasgow and Montgomery remains a concern as Detroit pushes for a playoff spot.
