On Tuesday morning, Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell made his weekly radio visit on 97.1 The Ticket. In a great conversation, Campbell addressed his sentiments about winning the NFC North, praised owner Sheila Hamp, and provided some critical injury information.
For those wondering if C.J. Gardner-Johnson, who returned to practice last week after a torn pectoral, may play this week, Campbell appeared to imply it was certainly feasible.
“It’s C.J.’s turn. “He’s almost there,” Campbell remarked. “We’ve got to decide what we’re going to do there and just how close is ‘close.'”
The Lions could definitely wait until they were safe. At this stage, they are merely competing for postseason seeding, with any playoff berth between the one and three seeds being feasible. Furthermore, the Lions are now benefiting from the great play of safety Ifeatu Melifonwu.
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“He’s a player. He simply keeps getting better. “He’s instinctive,” Campbell remarked after the Vikings’ win on Sunday. “You can see his athletic ability. He engages in physical play. He simply keeps getting better. He is, after all. When ‘Ducey’ returns, we’re going to have a good problem on our hands. It simply adds another playmaker to the mix.”
Perhaps more importantly, Campbell provided an encouraging update on edge rusher James Houston, who has been out with a fractured ankle.
“There’s a good chance we’ll restart Houston’s clock,” Campbell added.
“I don’t know, I made a comment about it this morning.” We could (start his clock), or we could wait a week. We’ll see where he ends up. He’s almost ready to start the timer.”
While Campbell’s statements were not quite clear, the implication seemed to be that Houston will resume practice this week. Given the Lions’ short week (they play the Cowboys on Saturday), Tuesday’s practice is likely to be a walkthrough. Following that, we could see Houston on the field.
Putting him back in the lineup might have major results for Detroit. The Lions have battled all season to find a consistent pass rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson, and Houston’s explosiveness could provide the spark they need. Houston has 8.0 sacks in only seven games last season.
Campbell also provided a general update on Alim McNeill, who has been on injured reserve for the last three games, stating that the Lions defensive tackle “continues to get better.”
