Aidan Hutchinson made a successful return to practice on Thursday, November 13, participating fully after missing the previous day due to an elbow injury. While Hutchinson’s presence bolsters the Detroit Lions, the team faces significant injury challenges in their secondary as they prepare to face the Philadelphia Eagles this week.
The Lions are currently without two starting defensive backs, as Amik Robertson has been added to the injury report with a hamstring issue. Robertson has stepped up as the Lions’ primary cornerback at times this season, particularly in the absence of D.J. Reed, who has been sidelined since Week 4 due to a strained hamstring. Reed is on injured reserve but was a limited participant in practice, leaving uncertainty about whether he will be activated for the upcoming game.
Adding to their woes, Terrion Arnold is in concussion protocol and has not practiced this week, while safety Kerby Joseph is expected to miss his fourth consecutive game due to a knee injury. If Robertson is unable to play and Reed remains inactive, the Lions may have to rely on Rock Ya-Sin and Nick Whiteside to fill the cornerback positions against an Eagles team boasting a strong record of 7-2.
In addition to the defensive backfield concerns, tight end Sam LaPorta missed practice for the second day in a row with a back injury. Defensive tackle Pat O’Connor also did not participate Thursday after being limited the day before. However, some good news came with Taylor Decker, Penei Sewell, Marcus Davenport, Josh Paschal, Miles Frazier, Sione Vaki, and Brock Wright all showing limited participation. Sewell, Vaki, and Wright returned to practice after being absent the previous day, which points towards a potential reinforcement for the team.
As the Lions prepare for their upcoming match-up, they are maintaining a strong focus on healing and getting their key players ready to compete. Despite the challenges on the injury front, the team remains hopeful and determined as they strive to improve their 6-3 record.