Even with Detroit’s 2026 NFL season only two weeks in, the Lions' injury woes at safety have worsened.
Detroit placed safety Thomas Harper (ankle) on injured reserve. Alongside offensive lineman Ben Bartch, Harper was one of two Lions that Detroit ruled out from Sunday's game against the New York Jets on Friday.
Additionally, the Lions announced the elevation of defensive back Jalen Mills and linebacker Amen Ogbongbemiga for its matchup against the Jets.
Lions announce roster moves:
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) September 26, 2026
Placed S Thomas Harper on Reserve/Injured.
Elevated DB Jalen Mills and LB Amen Ogbongbemiga from the Practice Squad to the Active/Inactive list. pic.twitter.com/t1bUzGuRSc
The Lions signed Mills to its practice squad at the beginning of the week. Mills, 32, spent the end
of last season in Detroit.
Originally a seventh-round pick out of LSU by the Eagles in 2016, Mills has played in 122 games and started 92, registering 460 tackles, 60 passes defended, 10 tackles for loss, eight interceptions, seven quarterback hits, three forced fumbles, 1.5 sacks, and one fumble recovery. He has also returned one interception for a touchdown.
Per NFL rules, Harper must miss four games and will not be eligible to return until the Lions' Week 8 date versus the Minnesota Vikings, at the earliest.
The Lions and Jets kick off at 1 p.m. ET from Ford Field on Sunday, Sept. 27, with the game broadcast on FOX.
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This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Lions elevate duo vs. Jets, place Thomas Harper on injured reserve
