The Detroit Lions head into their Week 16 matchup against the Chicago Bears with notable absences and key activations.
Offensive Line Challenges
- Graham Glasgow, the Lions’ starting right guard, is out due to a knee injury, marking his first missed game of the season.
- Veterans Kayode Awosika and Michael Niese, along with rookie Christian Mahogany, are being considered as replacements.
- Offensive players joining Glasgow on the inactive list:
- Running back David Montgomery
- Offensive lineman Colby Sorsdal
- Tackle Giovanni Manu
Defensive Boost
- Safety Ifeatu Melifonwu will make his 2024 debut after recovering from ankle and finger injuries that sidelined him for the first 14 games.
- Melifonwu is coming off a strong 2023 season, recording 33 tackles, 3.0 sacks, two interceptions, and eight passes defended.
- Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn plans to gradually integrate him into the defense.
Roster Updates
- Activated from the practice squad to the active roster:
- Mitchell Agude (OLB)
- Tom Kennedy (WR)
- Chris Smith (DL)
- Elevated from the practice squad for today’s game:
- Jermar Jefferson (RB)
- Loren Strickland (S)
Defensive Inactives
- Jonah Williams (DL)
- Brodric Martin (DL)
- Kwon Alexander (LB)
The Lions’ ability to adapt will be critical as they face the Bears, particularly with shorthanded offensive and defensive units.