Lions Eye McNeill’s Return Before Bye Week
The Detroit Lions are optimistic about having defensive tackle Alim McNeill back in action sooner than anticipated. Just hours after head coach Dan Campbell hinted at McNeill’s potential return to practice this week, he provided an update on the timeline for the player’s comeback.
During his weekly radio appearance on 97.1 The Ticket, Campbell was asked if there was a chance McNeill could see game action ahead of the team’s bye week. The Lions have three critical matchups against the Bengals, Chiefs, and Buccaneers before their Week 8 break.
“That’s the plan—seeing how comfortable he is,” Campbell shared. “A lot depends on his condition: how he looks and how he feels. If we can make it happen, that would be great. But we won’t commit to a specific game just yet. We need to evaluate where he stands.”
Praise for McNeill and Medical Team
Campbell expressed admiration for both McNeill and the team’s medical staff, highlighting the considerable effort put into the defensive lineman’s rehabilitation. The former third-round pick has been making strides toward a return, and Campbell noted that McNeill’s progress has been impressive.
“Dude, he’s unbelievable,” Campbell remarked. “He’s been trending in the right direction. We’re being honest and cautious here—making sure we approach this smartly. The work he’s put in has been phenomenal.”
In August, discussions about McNeill’s recovery highlighted his impressive condition, suggesting he might be ahead of schedule. “His strength in the knee is really good, and that’s crucial,” Campbell emphasized. “Getting back that strength and flexibility was key, and he accomplished that quickly due to his hard work.”
Cautious Approach to Injury Recovery
The Lions typically adopt a conservative strategy when it comes to players returning from injuries. Campbell reiterated the importance of ensuring McNeill can not only contribute but also protect himself on the field.
“It’s about being smart with this process,” he stated. “We need to reach a minimum threshold to ensure he’s healed, that his flexibility and strength are where they need to be. We believe he can protect himself and be productive.”
Should the team opt for a cautious approach, McNeill may make his return in Week 9 against the Minnesota Vikings. As the Lions continue to navigate their season, the anticipation surrounding McNeill’s recovery adds an intriguing layer to their defensive strategy.
