Despite a reported decrease in NFL injuries this season, the NFC-leading Detroit Lions have faced significant setbacks due to injuries.
As the team pushes toward securing home-field advantage in the playoffs, they are grappling with a roster hit hard by health issues.
Before last week’s game against the Bills, the Lions had an NFL-high 18 players on injured reserve.
Their injury troubles worsened when cornerback Carlton Davis III broke his jaw and defensive tackle Alim McNeill tore his ACL, ending his season. Both players were placed on injured reserve, along with backup cornerback Khalil Dorsey, who suffered a fractured leg.
The mounting injuries have left Lions fans concerned.
A Detroit sports outlet, Woodward Sports, invited fans to share their thoughts on coach Dan Campbell’s injury-plagued team as they prepare for an upcoming game against Caleb Williams
and the Chicago Bears.
Fans responded with a mix of emotions, from hopeful to frustrated.
“Sad and frustrated,” one fan wrote. “We’re so close, but every week it feels like we’re losing ground due to injuries.
Let’s win the last three games, get the bye, and try to patch things together for a playoff run. After that, it’s just three more wins for a Super Bowl.”
Detroit’s remaining schedule includes a road game against the 49ers on Dec. 30 and a home game against the Vikings on Jan. 5.
“It’s one loss! Why is everyone panicking?” another fan argued.
Despite the injuries, some fans remain optimistic.
“I’ve loved this team since I was a kid,” one wrote. “I’m 31 now. What I’m seeing is incredible, something I’ve never experienced with this team. We will get a
Others suggested the team make changes to avoid future injuries. One fan proposed switching Ford Field’s artificial turf to natural grass.
“If they have fewer injuries in their next two games on grass, the owner should consider installing grass at Ford Field. This is insane.”
As the Lions prepare for a crucial stretch, fans hope the team can overcome its injury woes and continue its Super Bowl quest.