ALLEN PARK, Mich.
— The Detroit Lions faced significant challenges in their recent defeat against the Buffalo Bills, resulting in numerous injuries to key players.
Head coach Dan Campbell emphasized the need for resilience, stating, “Nobody cares. Nobody is going to give us a pass, or put an asterisk next to your record.”
Unfortunately, running back David Montgomery and defensive tackle Alim McNeill will both require season-ending knee surgeries as a result of injuries sustained during the game. In addition, Khalil Dorsey underwent surgery Sunday night following a broken leg during the matchup with the Bills.
The Lions will also be without cornerback Carlton Davis III for an indefinite period due to a jaw injury incurred in the 48-42 loss that ended their impressive 11-game winning streak. “Not sure how long that’s going to be, I just know in the immediate future, I don’t see it,” Campbell remarked, underscoring the uncertain timeline for Davis’ return.
As injuries continue to plague the team, Detroit’s roster has been severely impacted, with a total of 18 players currently on injured reserve, and this recent wave will likely push that number beyond 20.
The defensive lineup has been particularly affected, losing six starters from their initial Week 1 setup. Notably, defensive end Aidan Hutchinson has been sidelined for two months following a leg injury sustained in Dallas.
Currently standing at 12-2, Detroit has navigated through these injuries remarkably well, managing to secure 11 consecutive victories before their setback against the Bills. This defeat has allowed Philadelphia to catch up in the race for the top seed in the NFC, while also giving Minnesota an opportunity to share the lead in the NFC North with only three games remaining in the regular season. The Vikings are scheduled to face the Lions in their final game of the regular season.
“Sometimes, you got to get punched in the face,” Campbell acknowledged. He expressed optimism that this experience will ultimately benefit the team as they prepare to face a division rival on the road.
This Sunday, the Lions will be heading to Chicago, and Montgomery will miss the chance to play against his former team and contribute to Detroit’s Super Bowl aspirations. Despite playing through injury against the Bills, Montgomery managed just four rushing yards on five attempts and caught four passes for 31 yards.
“David is so tough,” Campbell remarked, highlighting the running back’s determination. Prior to his injury, Montgomery had rushed for 775 yards and scored 12 touchdowns, frequently sharing the backfield with speedy running back Jahmyr Gibbs, along with registering 36 receptions for 341 yards.
Campbell noted the significant gap left by McNeill’s absence on the defensive line, which was already a burdened position with seven players on injured reserve. McNeill had been pivotal, recording seven tackles for loss, tying him with Hutchinson and linebacker Alex Anzalone, who is also injured.
Davis had been a key defensive contributor with 11 pass defenses and two interceptions, ranking third among his teammates for the season. Meanwhile, Dorsey was not only a strong performer on special teams but also contributed by returning kickoffs, including one for 72 yards, assisting the Lions in a tightly contested game against Tennessee.
“This gives some guys an incredible opportunity,” Campbell stated. “Whether it’s a practice squad player or a young player eager to get a chance, their moment is coming.”