The Detroit Lions suffered a 48-42 loss to the Buffalo Bills in Week 15, but the pain didn’t stop there. Three defensive players, including two starters, were forced to leave the game early due to injuries. Defensive lineman Alim McNeill and cornerback Carlton Davis were both sidelined, while cornerback Khalil Dorsey sustained a serious ankle injury that will end his season. Dorsey was struck by one of his teammates, and after requiring an air cast, he was carted off the field.
Davis was diagnosed with a jaw injury, and McNeill with a right knee injury. Both players were ruled out, with McNeill’s injury being declared immediately, which signals a severe issue.
After the game, head coach Dan Campbell provided updates on the trio’s injuries.
Detroit Lions Injury Updates
As expected, Dorsey is done for the season, Campbell confirmed. He noted that Dorsey’s injury is similar to that of Aidan Hutchinson.
Campbell’s news worsened, as he expressed concerns that both Davis and McNeill may also be out for the season with their injuries, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The exact nature of their injuries remains unclear.
“Yeah, normally if I’m saying, ‘I don’t feel good,’ that means not good for the rest of the year,” Campbell stated when asked about the season-ending status of McNeill and Davis, per Pride of Detroit. “So, I don’t feel good about it.”
It’s a tough blow.
With McNeill out, D.J. Reader is now the last remaining starter on the defensive line, as Hutchinson and defensive end Marcus Davenport are also done for the season.
If Davis is also lost for the year, the Lions will likely turn to cornerback Emmanuel Moseley opposite rookie Terrion Arnold, with Kindle Vildor possibly in the mix as well.
Despite the numerous injuries on defense, the Lions have continued to perform well this season, but it seems the toll may finally be catching up to them — possibly starting in Week 15.
