The Lions are heading into a pivotal stretch of the season still dealing with some significant injury concerns-especially in the secondary.
Safety Kerby Joseph was once again absent from Wednesday’s practice as he continues to work his way back from a knee injury that’s kept him sidelined since Week 6. That’s a long time to be without one of your most instinctive defenders, and with Brian Branch already out for the year, Detroit’s depth on the back end is being tested in a big way.
Last weekend against the Rams, the Lions rolled out Avonte Maddox and Erick Hallett as their starting safeties. Maddox is a savvy veteran who can hold his own, but Hallett was a recent call-up from the practice squad-and now he’s gone, having signed with the Titans. That leaves Detroit scrambling for answers at a position that’s already been hit hard.
The good news? Rookie Thomas Harper was a full participant in practice as he continues to recover from a concussion.
If he clears the final stages of the protocol, he’s expected to step into a starting role against the Steelers. Harper’s a physical player with solid range, and while he’s still learning the ropes, the Lions may have little choice but to lean on him.
On the offensive side, left tackle Taylor Decker was the only player who didn’t practice at all on Wednesday due to a shoulder issue. Decker’s presence is critical for Detroit’s pass protection, especially with a tough Steelers front on deck. If he can’t go, it’ll be a big test for the Lions’ offensive line depth.
Elsewhere in the trenches, offensive linemen Trystan Colon (wrist) and Giovani Manu (knee) were limited participants. That’s something to monitor as the week progresses, especially with Decker’s status in question. Defensive back Amik Robertson was also limited with a hand injury.
There was some positive news: Left guard Kayode Asowika (foot) and guard Christian Mahogany (fibula) were both full participants, joining rookie center Graham Brown in getting the green light. That’s a boost for a unit that’s been juggling pieces all year.
Bottom line: The Lions are banged up in some key spots, particularly at safety and along the offensive line. With the playoffs in sight and a physical matchup against Pittsburgh looming, they’ll need some of these young and unproven players to step up-and quickly.