Detroit Lions Face Growing Injury Concerns as DJ Reader Suffers Back Setback
The Detroit Lions entered this season with lofty ambitions, but a familiar issue is beginning to resurface — injuries. Just as momentum was building, the team’s list of sidelined players continues to expand, particularly on defense. The latest worry involves veteran defensive tackle DJ Reader, whose back injury has added another obstacle for an already depleted unit.
DJ Reader’s Injury Raises Alarms
The Lions suffered a major setback when it was revealed that Reader did not take part in practice due to a back problem. The veteran lineman, a key presence in Detroit’s interior defense, was seen working separately with trainers — a worrying sight for coaches and fans alike. His absence comes at a pivotal stage, especially as he has been carrying a heavy workload with Alim McNeill still recovering from an ACL injury.
Reader has been a consistent force this season, playing in over 60% of Detroit’s defensive snaps. Against the Kansas City Chiefs, he logged a season-high 43 plays, underscoring his importance in stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback. However, for a 31-year-old defensive tackle, any back issue is cause for concern.
With McNeill close to returning, the original plan was to ease him back while Reader continued anchoring the line. But if Reader is forced to miss time, a strength could quickly become a weakness. The situation now places extra responsibility on McNeill to regain form quickly and on the rotational players to step up against upcoming challenges.
Defensive Depth Tested as Injuries Mount
Reader’s setback is just the latest in a growing list of defensive injuries for Detroit. The unit has been hit hard across multiple positions, with several key contributors battling ongoing issues:
- Terrion Arnold (CB): The second-year cornerback remains sidelined with a shoulder problem. Although he avoided injured reserve, he’s unlikely to return before the bye week, leaving a noticeable gap in the secondary.
- Avonte Maddox (DB): The experienced defensive back missed the previous game with a mid-week hamstring injury. Such issues can linger, reducing depth and flexibility in the defensive backfield.
- Kerby Joseph (S): The All-Pro safety continues to deal with knee troubles that began in training camp. While he’s fought through the pain to stay on the field, it’s clear he’s not operating at full strength. The team is carefully managing his workload until the bye week.
The Lions’ defense, once considered one of the team’s key assets, now faces serious strain. How quickly players like Reader and McNeill recover could determine whether Detroit can maintain its strong start or watch
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