The Detroit Lions are dealing with a significant defensive injury crisis following their Sunday night loss to the Buffalo Bills. The defeat saw the Lions lose key contributors Alim McNeill (ACL tear), Carlton Davis (broken jaw), and Khalil Dorsey (fractured ankle), adding to an already lengthy list of sidelined defenders. Aidan Hutchinson (broken tibia), Marcus Davenport (tricep injury), and Alex Anzalone (broken arm) had already been unavailable, leaving Detroit’s defense severely depleted.
Anthony Pittman Returns to Bolster Depth
In response to these mounting injuries, the Lions have signed linebacker Anthony Pittman from the Jacksonville Jaguars’ practice squad. Pittman, a familiar face for Detroit fans, previously spent five seasons (2019–2023) with the Lions, where he played both as a linebacker and a key contributor on special teams.
A Detroit native and Wayne State University graduate, Pittman played in all 17 regular-season games during the 2022 and 2023 campaigns, as well as Detroit’s three postseason games last year. After brief stints this season with the Washington Commanders and Jacksonville Jaguars, Pittman is back in Detroit to provide crucial depth and leadership as the Lions navigate this difficult stretch.
Jared Goff Stays Optimistic
Despite the injuries and the tough loss, Lions quarterback Jared Goff remains confident in the team’s ability to rebound.
“We’ll be just fine,” Goff stated. “I’m sure there will be a ton of stuff written about the sky falling, but no, internally, we’re good. Yeah, we had won how many in a row up to that point, but it sucks to lose.”
The Lions, now 12-2, are set to face the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on Sunday. Detroit will look to maintain their strong NFC playoff positioning despite the adversity.
With gaps in their defense, the Lions will lean on experienced players like Pittman and strategic adjustments to remain competitive. Their depth, resilience, and leadership will be critical as they aim to overcome injuries and keep their postseason hopes alive.
