The Detroit Lions were missing some crucial players at Thursday’s practice ahead of the divisional round matchup. Offensive guard Kevin Zeitler (hamstring) and left tackle Taylor Decker were not present during the portion of practice open to reporters. Zeitler, who suffered the hamstring injury and didn’t return during the season finale against the Minnesota Vikings, was listed as a non-participant following the team’s walkthrough to kick off the week. As for Decker, his absence from Thursday’s session is labeled as “personal,” with no specific injury reported.
While Zeitler’s status remains uncertain, Decker was previously listed as a full participant and wasn’t given any designation heading into the week.
Also absent were cornerback Ennis Rakestraw (hamstring/illness) and defensive lineman Pat O’Connor (calf). Rakestraw had his 21-day return window activated last week, and missing consecutive practices could be a concerning sign for his recovery.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell expressed doubt about O’Connor’s availability, indicating that his injury appears to be more severe than Zeitler’s or cornerback Terrion Arnold’s injuries. Speaking of Arnold, he’s been back at practice, fully participating so far this week. Arnold is dealing with a foot contusion, but it is considered day-to-day.
On a positive note, David Montgomery has also returned to practice and is expected to be available for the upcoming game against the Washington Commanders. Both Montgomery and Arnold were full participants on Thursday, indicating they’re progressing well.
More news……
Lions expected to sign Patriots running back to a $1.75 million deal
The Detroit Lions arguably boast one of the best running back situations in the NFL with the duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, both of whom are under contract through 2025, ensuring their continued presence. However, the backup spots behind them are less certain heading into the future. Both Craig Reynolds and Jermar Jefferson are set to become free agents in 2025, and it’s unclear what role rookie running back Sione Vaki will play.
If the Lions decide not to retain either Jefferson or Reynolds, they may want to consider adding a veteran backup, especially given the injury history of both Montgomery and Gibbs over the past couple of seasons.
In a piece predicting the future of New England Patriots’ pending free agents, Cam Garrity of Patriots Wire suggests that the team will not re-sign running back JaMycal Hasty and anticipates the veteran landing with the Lions on a one-year, $1.75 million contract.
Hasty joined the Patriots and managed to secure a roster spot by outperforming Kevin Harris, but he has struggled to make a substantial impact. With Antonio Gibson and Rhamondre Stevenson under contract, and the recent signing of Terrell Jennings, the Patriots are unlikely to retain Hasty, especially with Harris likely returning for training camp.
Prediction: Lions, one-year, $1.75m
Hasty has served as a reliable backup for several years and brings dual-threat capability due to his receiving skills. Over his five seasons in the NFL, the undrafted free agent has averaged 4.0 yards per carry, with 60 receptions for 375 yards and two touchdowns.
In 2024, Hasty’s role was limited as the No. 3 back, where he posted 20 carries for 69 yards (3.5 yards per carry) and 10 receptions for 59 yards. Although his numbers weren’t impressive, it’s worth noting that the Patriots had a subpar offensive line.
The most likely outcome for the Lions is bringing back Reynolds and/or Jefferson to maintain the current setup. However, if neither is retained, it’s possible the team could target a veteran like Hasty.
