The Detroit Lions suffered their first loss in a while, dropping a 48-42 shootout against the Buffalo Bills. While the NFC North powerhouse put up a good fight against the AFC East’s best, they suffered more losses than what the scoreboard reflects.
On defense, the Lions won’t have defensive tackle Alim McNeill for the remainder of the season after suffering a torn ACL. Detroit awarded him a four-year, $97 million contract extension in October, and he responded with 25 tackles, seven quarterback hits, and 3.5 sacks through 14 games. Since the recovery period for ACL injuries could take up to 12 months, he could be unavailable for the Lions until the homestretch of the 2025 season.
Meanwhile, cornerback Carlton Davis III suffered a jaw fracture against the Bills. His injury required surgery, forcing him to miss up to six weeks of action. Davis could return to the field during the NFC Championship Game on Jan. 26 if the Lions reach the postseason stage.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers traded Davis and two sixth-round picks to the Lions during the 2024 offseason. Through 13 games, the defensive back from Auburn had 56 tackles, 11 passes defended, two interceptions, and two fumble recoveries.
The Lions also lost Khalil Dorsey to an ankle injury. These injuries lengthen the list of key players who have succumbed to injury. Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, Alex Anzalone, Malcome Rodgriguez, Emmanuel Moseley, Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Derrick Barnes, and Jalen Reeves-Maybin are also sidelined by injuries.
Lions notable defensive injuries this season:
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 16, 2024
DE Aidan Hutchinson
DT Alim McNeill
DL Marcus Davenport
DL John Cominsky
LB Alex Anzalone
LB Malcolm Rodriguez
LB Derrick Barnes
LB Jalen Reeves-Maybin
CB Carlton Davis
CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr.
CB Emmanuel…
Finally, running back David Montgomery's season ended abruptly after a torn MCL injury that will require surgery. The former Iowa State standout finished the season with 185 carries for 775 yards and 12 touchdowns, with 36 catches for 341 yards.
Despite these absences, the Lions have already clinched their postseason berth. However, their healthy players must step up to put up a great fight.
-Lance Fernandez