The Detroit Lions and New Orleans Saints were back on the practice field on Thursday as they prepare for their Sunday afternoon showdown at Ford Field in Detroit. The Lions last practiced on Tuesday and provided an estimated injury report on Wednesday, but Thursday will be a true reflection of where players stand with their injuries.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at Thursday’s injury report and get you up to date with what we know.
No practice on Thursday
- None
Once again, every player on the active roster was accounted
for and at practice, a terrific sign for those who unexpectedly landed on Wednesday’s injury report.
Limited practice
- EDGE Derrick Moore (hamstring)
- DL Mekhi Wingo (groin)
- DB Christian Izien (groin)
Moore’s hamstring injury was expected to keep him “down for a little bit,” but coach Dan Campbell was hopeful that, at this point in Week 1, he’d ”be ready to roll,” but back-to-back limited practices will put his availability in question.
Wingo impressed with his athleticism and versatility in camp, but a groin injury could limit his impact, so his progress will be worth monitoring as we get closer to game time.
Izien’s availability for the opening game was not clear the last time the media spoke with Campbell, but getting some practice work in is a step in the right direction. If available, the Lions would get a huge boost at nickel on defense and on special teams.
Full practice
- LB Jimmy Rolder (hamstring)
- LB Trevor Nowaske (knee)
- CB Ennis Rakestraw (ankle)
- CB Keith Abney (hand)
- S Thomas Harper (ankle)
While Rolder getting in another practice under his belt on Thursday is good news, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Lions be cautious with him as he returns to game action. With seven linebackers on the roster, they can afford to take it slow with his rehabilitation.
Nowaske’s late camp leg injury doesn’t seem like it will impact his availability too much, but we’ll see how the rest of the week plays out.
Rakestraw and Abney were unexpected additions to this week’s injury report, so we’re hoping to get an update on their statuses on Friday when Campbell meets with the media again. That being said, full practices are very encouraging.
Harper looks to be in a solid spot to return to play this week, and it sounds like coaches are planning on him being available.
Saints’ Thursday injury report
Coming Soon.
