Lions Defense Receives Boost as Davenport and Reed Return to Practice
The Detroit Lions are making strides in their defensive lineup with the return of two key players. Defensive end Marcus Davenport and cornerback D.J. Reed have begun their 21-day practice window, signaling a potential comeback after their respective injuries.
Injury Updates and Practice Participation
Both Davenport and Reed were seen participating in the portion of practice that was open to the media at the Lions’ Allen Park Performance Center. This marks a positive development for the team as they navigate the challenges of the season.
In contrast, several notable players were absent from practice. Running back Sione Vaki, tight end Brock Wright, right tackle Penei Sewell, cornerback Terrion Arnold, safety Kerby Joseph, and defensive end Aidan Hutchinson were not spotted on the field.
Reed has been recovering from a hamstring injury, while Davenport has been sidelined due to a strained pectoral muscle. While their return might not be imminent for the upcoming matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, their progress suggests they could be back on the field by early December, consistent with head coach Dan Campbell’s earlier updates.
Coaching Insights on Defensive Performance
Before practice, Campbell addressed the team’s struggles with pass-rush efficiency, acknowledging their ranking among the lowest in the league for pass-rush win rate. “I mean look, the stats are stats. I can’t deny that,” he said. “But I don’t feel that way. I’m not going through everything and calculating what that is or isn’t. And maybe a win rate is different. Is a win rate a sack? Is that a pressure? Is that an incompletion that was caused? Look, I think we’re able to generate pressure.”
He further noted that while there are aspects of their game they wish to improve, the unique challenges of defending against opposing offenses remain a factor. “Are there things from the other day we wished we would’ve gotten a little more pressure? Yeah. Some of this comes back to, man, Hutch is not going to get a one-on-one. But when he does, he’s got to win.”
The Lions are actively working to refine their defensive strategies as they prepare for the challenges ahead, especially with the anticipated return of key players.
