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Tag: D.J. Reed

  • Detroit Lions Make Multiple Roster Moves Ahead of Giants Matchup

    The Detroit Lions are settling in for a critical three-game homestand, and they’re doing it with a healthier roster than they’ve had in weeks. With playoff urgency creeping in, Detroit made several roster moves on Saturday, including one major return and one very underrated one.

    Let’s break it all down.

    D.J. Reed Activated — And That’s Huge

    The headliner? D.J. Reed is officially back.

    Just a couple of weeks ago, Dan Campbell hinted that Reed wouldn’t return until early December. Then, suddenly, boom, activated for Sunday against the Giants. The Lions already own one of the NFL’s top defenses, and now they get their CB1 back for the stretch run.

    There’s been no confirmation on whether he’ll be on a pitch count, but having Reed back at all is a massive win.

    Khalil Dorsey Returns — And Don’t Sleep On This One

    It may not grab headlines, but Khalil Dorsey’s return might be one of the most underrated moves of the week.

    Detroit’s special teams have struggled lately, and Dorsey has long been one of the league’s elite gunners. Add in the extra cornerback depth, and suddenly that entire third phase looks a whole lot more stable.

    This could quietly swing field position in Detroit’s favor, something they’ve been missing.

    Anthony Firkser Elevated From the Practice Squad

    With Sam LaPorta out for the season following a back procedure, the Lions needed another tight end, and Anthony Firkser is the next man up.

    Firkser, who spent time with Detroit in 2023, brings value as a blocker and has the versatility to line up as a fullback. Expect him to play a role in the run game, especially against a Giants defense that struggles to stop it.

    Two Players Waived to Make Room

    To activate Reed and Dorsey, the Lions waived:

    • LB Ty Summers
    • S Erick Hallett

    Neither player saw significant snaps this season, and both are strong candidates to return to the practice squad if they clear waivers.

    Detroit now heads into Sunday’s matchup against the Giants closer to full strength than they’ve been in weeks, and just in time for a pivotal stretch that could define their playoff path.

    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • D.J. Reed Says He’s Ready to ‘Turn Up’ as Lions Secondary Nears Full Strength

    Detroit Lions cornerback D.J. Reed hasn’t played since Week 4, but you’d never know it listening to him on Friday. Reed is officially listed as Questionable for Sunday’s matchup with the New York Giants, yet all signs point to him giving it a go, and he sounds like a guy who absolutely cannot wait to get back on the field.

    And honestly? The timing couldn’t be better.

    ‘The word is gratitude’ — Reed reflects on his return

    Reed didn’t hide how much getting back onto the practice field meant to him.

    “The word is gratitude,” he said. “Just happy to be back out there with my teammates… I’m just really happy to be out there, but you know, want to go out there and dominate and get the win.”

    Reed admits that the only true way to get his rhythm back is by actually playing again.

    “You could practice, you could run and do all that, but until you go out there, that’s the only time you can really, you know, get ready for the real deal.”

    Translation: he knows he might need a snap or two to settle in, but he expects to hit the ground fast.

    ‘I was getting into my bag’ — Reed felt he was peaking pre-injury

    Before the wrist injury, Reed quietly stacked some of his best work of the season. He went out of his way to mention it.

    “I definitely felt like I was getting the groove of things,” Reed said. “The Baltimore week, I had a great game that game guarding Zay Flowers… when I guarded Jerry Jeudy, I thought I had a good game as well. I started getting in the groove and caught my first interception the game that I got hurt.”

    That’s why he wants to get back so badly, he felt himself leveling up, and he’s determined to pick up where he left off.

    “Yeah, I’m going to have to get it back… probably be a little rusty, but I’m looking forward to going out there and, you know, still dominating.”

    Reed has a message for Rock Ya-Sin & the DBs: ‘I want to turn up with my boys’

    If you want to know how Reed feels about Detroit’s secondary holding A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith in check last week, here’s your answer:

    “I told Rock like what they did against AJ Brown and Devonta Smith… I haven’t seen anybody do it on film,” Reed said. “Usually if you take one guy away, the other guy goes off, but they held them as best as anybody could. So shout out to them. I feel like they’re starters in this league.”

    And then came the line Lions fans will love:

    “I’m just looking forward to, you know, going back out there and turning up with my boys for real.”

    ‘We’re getting healthy at the right time’ — full secondary nearly back

    Reed wasn’t shy about the bigger picture either. Detroit’s DB room could be close to full strength soon, with Kerby Joseph and Terrion Arnold trending in the right direction.

    “I’m excited, you know, for everybody to be healthy, especially as we go on this run,” he said. “Just taking it one game at a time. It’s the championship week, the Giants.”

    A healthy secondary heading into a three-game homestand? That’s exactly what the Lions needed.

    So… will Reed play Sunday?

    He didn’t guarantee it, but he sure didn’t sound like someone expecting to sit.

    If he’s active, he said he feels healthy enough to play a full load:

    “If I have to play the whole game, I feel like I’m healthy enough to do that.”

    The Lions need him. The secondary needs him. And Reed clearly needs to be back out there with his guys.

    Expect No. 4 to suit up. Expect him to be emotional. And expect him to bring juice the Lions defense could use right now.

    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions vs. New York Giants Point Spread Revealed

    Well, Vegas didn’t waste any time telling you exactly how they feel about this matchup.

    Fresh off a frustrating 16-9 loss to the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles, the Detroit Lions return home in Week 12, and the oddsmakers still love them. The Lions opened as 10.5-point favorites over the New York Giants, according to DraftKings Sportsbook.

    And honestly? It makes perfect sense.

    Lions Heavily Favored Despite Week 11 Stumble

    Detroit enters the week at 6-4, licking its wounds after an ugly offensive showing in Philly. But at Ford Field, against a 2-9 Giants team that can’t stop anybody and just lost to the Packers, this is exactly the kind of bounce-back spot Dan Campbell’s group should dominate.

    DraftKings’ opening line:

    • Lions -10.5 (-110)
    • Giants +10.5 (-110)
    • Over/Under 50.5

    Even the moneyline isn’t subtle:
    Detroit -550, New York +410

    Vegas expects this one to get away from the Giants pretty quickly.

    Why the Lions Are So Heavily Favored

    Let’s call it like it is: on paper, this is a mismatch.

    • Detroit’s defense just held the Eagles to 16 points despite multiple injuries.
    • The Giants, meanwhile, are one of the least explosive offenses in football.
    • The Lions are getting healthier with D.J. Reed, Malcolm Rodriguez, and possibly others set to return.
    • At home, this team plays faster, looser, and far more efficiently.

    Add in the fact that the Lions nearly beat the Super Bowl champs despite going 0-for-5 on fourth down, and Vegas clearly believes Detroit’s offense won’t repeat that kind of meltdown.

    A Much-Needed Bounce-Back Spot

    Dan Campbell said after the Eagles loss that Detroit is “so close” and expects his team to hit its stride down the stretch. The Giants present the perfect opportunity to start that run.

    If the Lions want to reassert themselves as NFC contenders — this is the week to make that statement loud and clear.

    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions Injury Update: Dan Campbell Gives Latest on 3 Key Players

    The Detroit Lions are hoping to get healthier on defense, and Dan Campbell delivered one of his more encouraging injury updates in weeks. With the New York Giants coming to town for Week 12, Detroit appears to finally be getting some reinforcements.

    Campbell opened by highlighting cornerback D.J. Reed, who has been fighting through a hamstring injury.

    “D.J. Reed looks pretty positive,” Campbell said. “We’re gonna get him a week of work here and see where he’s at.”

    Reed returning would be massive. Before going down, he was one of the Lions’ most reliable defensive backs, and Detroit’s secondary has missed his physical style and experience.

    Malcolm Rodriguez Making Real Progress

    Campbell also sounded upbeat when discussing linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, who’s worked tirelessly to get back on the field.

    “Rodrigo is looking better, he’s getting better every day,” Campbell said, noting that Reed and Rodriguez are “the top of that list” of players most likely to return this week.

    Rodriguez’s speed and physicality would be a big boost for the second level of Detroit’s defense.

    Other Defensive Names on the Mend

    Campbell didn’t stop there. He noted a handful of other defenders trending in the right direction:

    • “Marcus Davenport’s getting better.”
    • “Probably going to start Khalil Dorsey’s clock this week.”
    • “Josh Paschal was getting better. We’re kind of getting in a good place here.”

    Even with several players still on injured reserve, the overall health arrow for this defense is finally pointing upward.

    What About Kerby Joseph?

    One of Detroit’s most important playmakers, Kerby Joseph, is improving, but Campbell isn’t yet ready to say he’ll be available for Week 12.

    “He’s getting better, Campbell said. “I don’t know if I see him in this week, but he is getting better.”

    Joseph returning at some point soon feels realistic, but the Lions clearly aren’t going to rush him.

    A Well-Timed Boost Before Facing the Giants

    The Lions will host the 2-9 New York Giants at Ford Field next week, and any combination of returning defenders would be a welcome lift for a team hungry to get back in the win column. Detroit’s defense has held strong despite injuries, and now it appears reinforcements may finally be coming at the perfect time.

    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions Rule 4 Additional Players OUT vs. Eagles

    The Detroit Lions made several roster designations on Saturday, officially ruling out four players ahead of Sunday night’s showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles.

    The team confirmed that Miles Frazier, Marcus Davenport, Malcolm Rodriguez, and D.J. Reed have all been downgraded to OUT for Week 11. None of them will be activated from their respective injury lists.

    Detroit also updated its injury report by adding rookie wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa, who is now listed as questionable with an oblique injury.

    This comes one day after the Lions ruled out Sam LaPorta, Terrion Arnold, Kerby Joseph, and Josh Paschal on Friday’s final injury report, meaning Detroit will head into Philadelphia short-handed on both sides of the ball.

    With the Lions sitting at 6–3 and heading into one of the league’s toughest environments, health has quickly become one of the biggest storylines of Week 11.

    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions Start Injury Evaluation Clock on 2 Key Players

    The Detroit Lions got a major boost on Wednesday as two key defensive starters returned to practice. Edge rusher Marcus Davenport and cornerback D.J. Reed were both spotted on the field for the first time in weeks, marking a huge step forward in their recoveries as the Lions prepare for their Week 11 showdown against the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday Night Football.

    Reed Returns at the Perfect Time

    The Lions’ secondary has been hit hard by injuries this season, but help might finally be on the way. Cornerback D.J. Reed returned to practice Wednesday, opening his 21-day evaluation window to rejoin the 53-man roster.

    Reed has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury in Week 4 against the Cleveland Browns, and his absence has been felt. Before going down, he was off to a strong start, bringing leadership, consistency, and physicality to Detroit’s back end.

    Now, with rookie Terrion Arnold in concussion protocol, Reed’s return couldn’t come at a better time. Whether he’s able to suit up Sunday night remains to be seen, but just having him back on the field is a major positive sign.

    Marcus Davenport Returns to Bolster the Pass Rush

    On the defensive line, Marcus Davenport also took the field Wednesday, returning from a chest injury that’s kept him sidelined since Week 2. The former first-round pick has battled through multiple injury-plagued seasons, but when healthy, he’s a difference-maker, particularly opposite Aidan Hutchinson in the Lions’ pass-rush rotation.

    Davenport’s size and power give Detroit’s defensive front a different look, especially in obvious passing downs where his presence can draw extra attention away from Hutchinson. Getting him back for the stretch run could be a significant boost to Kelvin Sheppard’s defense, which is already trending upward after a dominant performance against Washington in Week 10.

    Both Reed and Davenport now enter the 21-day evaluation window, giving the Lions flexibility. The team can activate either player to the active roster at any point during that period. If not activated by the end of three weeks, the Lions must choose between adding them to the 53-man roster or shutting them down for the season.

    The Timing Couldn’t Be Better

    The Lions are 6-3 and entering the toughest stretch of their schedule. They’ll travel to Philadelphia this weekend before hosting the Green Bay Packers on Thanksgiving, two critical NFC matchups with playoff implications.

    Detroit’s defense has held steady through a wave of injuries, but the potential return of two starters on opposite ends of the formation is a massive lift. Reed’s coverage ability and Davenport’s pass-rush presence could be exactly what this team needs as it looks to solidify its place among the NFC’s elite.

    The Bottom Line

    The Lions have weathered the injury storm, and now they’re starting to get reinforcements. With D.J. Reed and Marcus Davenport returning to practice, the defense just got stronger, and the timing couldn’t be better.

    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions Reportedly Exploring Two Trade Options Before Deadline

    With the NFL trade deadline quickly approaching, the Detroit Lions appear to be doing their homework, and not just in one area.

    Earlier this week, Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported that the Lions have been “making calls” about potentially acquiring a cornerback. That made plenty of sense given Detroit’s recent run of injuries in the secondary, with players like D.J. Reed, Terrion Arnold, and Avonte Maddox both spending time on the shelf this season.

    But now, another position has entered the rumor mill. According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, the Lions have also “shown interest” in trading for an edge rusher before the deadline passes.

    That aligns with the team’s ongoing push to bolster its pass rush behind Aidan Hutchinson. While Detroit’s defense has been one of the league’s most aggressive under Kelvin Sheppard, the lack of consistent pressure opposite Hutchinson remains an issue the front office could look to fix.

    Why It Matters

    With Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell both committed to a Super Bowl run, any move at this stage would likely be targeted. not desperate. The Lions already boast one of the NFL’s most complete rosters, but depth on the edge and in the secondary could make all the difference in a tight playoff race.

    As of now, no specific trade targets have been confirmed, but the fact that the Lions are exploring options at two premium positions says everything about their mindset heading into November: all-in.

    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • Detroit Lions CB D.J. Reed Gives His Own Injury Update

    Detroit Lions cornerback D.J. Reed took a moment this week to provide fans with a personal update on his recovery, offering some optimism about his potential return to the field.

    Reed, who has been on injured reserve since October 1 due to a hamstring injury, told Colton Pouncy of The Athletic that his recovery is progressing well and that he’s “feeling close” to being back in game shape.

    The veteran corner played in four games before landing on IR, posting 16 tackles, one interception, and four pass breakups, immediately proving his value as a physical and savvy presence in Detroit’s secondary.

    What It Means for Detroit

    The Lions’ defense has held strong despite injuries across the secondary, thanks to impressive performances from Amik Robertson and others who have risen to the occasion. However, Reed’s eventual return could push this unit from solid to elite.

    Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard has praised Reed’s leadership and attention to detail, traits that have continued to impact the locker room even while he’s sidelined.

    If Reed’s recovery continues on track, a late-November return could give Detroit a significant boost just in time for their playoff push.

    The Bottom Line

    While there’s still no official timetable for D.J. Reed’s activation from injured reserve, his tone suggests confidence and steady progress. For a Detroit Lions team with Super Bowl aspirations, getting a veteran of Reed’s caliber back healthy would be a massive midseason addition.

    Don Drysdale

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  • Report: Detroit Lions Looking to Trade for a Cornerback

    According to a report from Dianna Russini of The Athletic, the Detroit Lions have been reaching out to other teams about a possible trade for a cornerback.

    If you’ve been following the Lions this season, this news probably doesn’t surprise you. Detroit’s secondary has been hit hard by injuries, with both starting corners, D.J. Reed and Terrion Arnold, battling health issues that have stretched the team’s depth thin.

    The front office, led by Brad Holmes, appears to be exploring all options to stabilize the position group as the team continues its push toward another postseason run.

    One name that has been floated as a potential fit? Riq Woolen of the Seattle Seahawks. The lengthy 6-foot-4 corner has elite speed and man-coverage traits that could make him a strong addition to Detroit’s defensive scheme.

    With the trade deadline fast approaching, the Lions could be one of the more aggressive teams on the market, especially if their injury luck in the secondary doesn’t improve soon.

    Don Drysdale

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  • NFL’s Wild Rule Could Reward Detroit Lions for Bad Luck

    The Detroit Lions might actually get rewarded for bad luck. Yeah, you read that right.

    When D.J. Reed went down with an injury earlier this season, it felt like another gut punch for a secondary that has been hit with wave after wave of setbacks. But according to Nick Korte of Over the Cap, the Lions could technically end up turning Reed’s missed time into a 2026 fourth-round compensatory pick, one of the strangest potential silver linings you’ll ever see.

    The Wild Compensatory Pick Twist

    Here’s how this bizarre situation works. The Lions signed D.J. Reed this offseason after losing Carlton Davis, which means Reed counts as a compensatory free agent (CFA) replacement.

    But here’s where it gets tricky: If Reed plays below a certain number of snaps this season, and Davis continues logging high snap counts elsewhere, the NFL’s formula could treat Reed’s signing as a net loss rather than a replacement.

    That could unlock a fourth-round compensatory pick for Detroit in the 2026 NFL Draft.

    “Finally, DJ Reed missing time due to injury has to be frustrating to the Lions,” Korte tweeted. “But there could be a very outside chance of a scenario like this that give them a 4th round 2026 compensatory pick if he continues to miss more time.”

    Korte even shared a chart showing that Reed is currently sitting at 48% of the required snaps, just below the threshold. If he remains under that line, Detroit could benefit.

    Why This Is So Rare

    To put it bluntly, this kind of situation almost never happens. Usually, when you sign a free agent to replace another, their playing time cancels out in the league’s compensatory pick formula.
    But because Reed’s injury has kept him off the field, that balance could tip.

    Still, this is a long shot. As Korte said, “It’s a very outside chance.” The league’s compensatory pick formula is notoriously complex, taking into account salaries, playing time, postseason honors, and more. Even Korte, the best in the business, admits it’s a hard system to predict.

    Detroit’s Focus: Winning, Not Comp Picks

    Sure, the thought of landing a fourth-round pick for Reed’s absence is fascinating, but make no mistake, the Lions aren’t rooting for it.

    If Reed’s ready to play, he’s playing. Period.

    This is a team chasing a Super Bowl, not a spreadsheet win. Getting a bonus draft pick is nice, but having one of your top corners healthy down the stretch is better.

    Still, it’s one of those rare “only in the NFL” quirks that adds another layer to Detroit’s fascinating 2025 season.

    The Bottom Line

    If D.J. Reed’s recovery takes longer than expected, the Lions might quietly benefit, but if he returns in time to help them make another playoff run, that’s the real prize.

    Either way, it’s a win-win situation. Just not one you see very often.

    Jeff Bilbrey

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  • Detroit Lions Announce 5 Roster Moves Following Wednesday’s Practice

    The Detroit Lions made several roster moves on Wednesday as they continue to adjust to injuries in the secondary and add depth across the board.

    The team announced that cornerback D.J. Reed has been placed on Reserve/Injured, a tough blow after the veteran was playing some of his best football before going down. Reed will now be sidelined for at least four weeks.

    To fill spots on the active roster, Detroit promoted safety Loren Strickland and linebacker Ty Summers from the practice squad. Summers, a familiar face who impressed in preseason last year, rejoined the Lions earlier this week and now gets a chance to contribute on Sundays.

    Meanwhile, the Lions added reinforcements at cornerback, signing Tre Flowers and Nick Whiteside to the practice squad. Flowers is a veteran with nearly 100 NFL games under his belt, while Whiteside brings developmental upside as Detroit looks to stabilize its depth chart.

    With injuries piling up in the secondary, head coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes are making moves to ensure the Lions don’t lose momentum as they head into a critical stretch of the season.

    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions Sign Former Seahawks CB Following Injuries vs. Browns

    The Detroit Lions have made another roster move as they look to stabilize their secondary following key injuries. On Tuesday, the team agreed to a deal with veteran cornerback Tre Flowers, adding him to the practice squad.

    A Veteran Cornerback Joins Detroit

    Flowers brings plenty of NFL experience to the Lions. Drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, he’s appeared in 95 career games with 44 starts. Over seven seasons, Flowers has recorded 287 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 22 passes defended.

    Along the way, he’s also spent time with the Cincinnati Bengals, Atlanta Falcons, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Indianapolis Colts. That type of versatility and adaptability is exactly what Detroit needs following a pair of injuries in its secondary.

    Campbell Sticks to “Next Man Up” Philosophy

    The signing comes just a day after head coach Dan Campbell signaled that roster help could be on the way. With D.J. Reed sidelined by a hamstring injury and Terrion Arnold questionable, the Lions were expected to add a cornerback. Flowers is the type of player who can learn quickly and contribute in a hurry if elevated from the practice squad.

    Detroit also signed linebacker Ty Summers on Tuesday. Summers, who impressed in preseason action with the Lions last year, gives the defense added depth in the middle.

    What It Means for the Lions’ Secondary

    While some fans might have hoped for a splashier move, Flowers is a steady addition who fits the Lions’ mentality. Campbell has made it clear that the standard doesn’t change no matter who’s on the field. Flowers, with nearly 100 NFL games under his belt, provides a stabilizing presence and could play an important role if called up.

    Given Detroit’s injury situation in the secondary, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Flowers in uniform on game day sooner rather than later.

    Don Drysdale

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  • Detroit Lions Latest Week 3 Injury Report Includes Multiple Starters

    The Detroit Lions are gearing up for Monday Night Football against the Baltimore Ravens, and the team’s Week 3 injury report brings both encouraging news and lingering concerns.

    Marcus Davenport continues to be the biggest question mark. The veteran EDGE rusher has yet to practice this week while dealing with a chest injury. His absence is becoming more notable by the day, and his chances of suiting up Monday are shrinking fast.

    The good news for Detroit: Taylor Decker looks on track to return. After sitting out Thursday with a shoulder issue, the Lions’ veteran left tackle was a full participant Friday. His availability would be huge for protecting quarterback Jared Goff against Baltimore’s defensive front.

    Jack Campbell (ankle), Kerby Joseph (knee), and D.J. Reed (knee) were all limited for the second straight day. Their statuses remain worth monitoring as the weekend progresses.

    Meanwhile, Trevor Nowaske (elbow) and Sione Vaki (hamstring) were full participants Friday, signaling they should be ready to go.

    Player Position Injury Thursday Friday Saturday Game status
    Marcus Davenport EDGE chest NP NP
    Jack Campbell LB ankle NP LP
    Kerby Joseph S knee LP LP
    D.J. Reed CB knee LP LP
    Taylor Decker T shoulder NP FP
    Trevor Nowaske LB elbow FP FP
    Sione Vaki RB hamstring FP FP

    The Lions’ defense, in particular, could use all hands on deck against Lamar Jackson and an explosive Ravens offense averaging 40.5 points per game.

    Don Drysdale

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