Lions’ Alim McNeill Eyes Return to Action in Week 9
The Detroit Lions are poised to receive a significant boost on the defensive front as defensive lineman Alim McNeill works towards a return from injury this season. However, the timing of his comeback remains uncertain. What is clear is that McNeill will be sidelined for the first four games of the season, due to his status on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
Recovery from Injury
McNeill, who suffered a torn ACL in December, is now nine months into his recovery. Recent reports indicate that progress is being made. On Wednesday, Justin Rogers from the Detroit Football Network shared an encouraging update on McNeill’s condition, revealing that he is nearing full recovery.
According to McNeill, he currently estimates his recovery at 93-94%. He expressed confidence in his ability to play if necessary, yet he is also mindful of the importance of not rushing the process. “If I needed to suit up and play a game this week, I’m confident I could,” he stated. “But the smart thing to do is to finish that last 6-7% of my recovery, particularly strengthening the muscles around the injury to make them stronger and more stable than before.”
Projected Return Timeline
As previously mentioned, McNeill will miss at least the next two games due to his PUP list designation. Once he is activated, which could happen as early as Week 5, the Lions will have a 21-day window to reinstate him to the active roster.
Jeremy Reisman from Pride of Detroit notes that the team typically prefers to see players coming off significant injuries practice for a week or two before making their return. This suggests that McNeill’s earliest possible return could be around mid-October, although he emphasizes that a November comeback is “far more likely.”
Given the investment the Lions have made in McNeill—evidenced by his four-year, $97 million contract extension—it’s clear the organization is committed to ensuring he returns in optimal condition. While some speculate that Week 7 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers could be a target date, the consensus leans toward Week 9, when the Lions face the Minnesota Vikings, following their bye week.
As McNeill continues to make strides in his recovery, the anticipation builds for his return to the field, where he is expected to play a crucial role in fortifying the Lions’ defense this season.
