The Detroit Lions are preparing for a pivotal matchup against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, January 5, at Ford Field. With the top seed in the NFC on the line, any positive developments are being met with enthusiasm from fans and the team alike.
On Thursday, January 2, the Lions received encouraging updates from their practice injury report, offering hope as they gear up for the critical game.
Lions Could Welcome Back Fan Favorites for Vikings Game
One of the highlights from Thursday’s injury report was the return of linebacker Alex Anzalone to full practice.
“Anzalone was seen by Jeremy Reisman wearing a removable protective brace at practice, likely as a precautionary measure during his acclimation,” noted NFL analyst Erik Schlitt in a January 2 report.
However, despite returning to practice, questions remain about Anzalone’s readiness for game action. Schlitt emphasized that “Reisman astutely pointed out that it’s been a while since he has been exposed to full contact, raising some potential concerns about his ability to return to game action quickly.”
Anzalone himself acknowledged the uncertainty, hinting at a tough decision regarding his return.
“Obviously, the doctors and the trainers go through what the risks are: waiting a week, waiting two weeks, going through practice, maybe letting it spin next week or the week after that or this week,” Anzalone said Thursday, according to ESPN’s Eric Woodyard.
“For me, personally, I think it’s like, ‘Okay, say if something did happen, would I be okay not playing in the Super Bowl?’” he explained. “So, I think that’s kind of the decision I have to make in my own head. Is it worth it? How do I feel over these next few practices? And go from there, because I haven’t practiced in six weeks. So, I’m just using my arm and seeing how it goes.”
While his status remains uncertain, other players are looking more optimistic. Wide receiver Kalif Raymond was a full participant in Thursday’s practice and “seems on the cusp of returning to the active roster,” according to Schlitt.
Additionally, linebacker Jack Campbell and cornerback Amik Robertson, who were limited participants on Wednesday, were full participants on Thursday. Their progress is a promising sign that they could suit up against the Vikings.
Dan Campbell Jokes About Alex Anzalone’s Return
Head coach Dan Campbell shared his thoughts on Anzalone’s potential return ahead of Wednesday’s practice.
“He’ll be out there running around today, so we’ll see how he does,” Campbell said. “Tomorrow is going to be a really big day for us to see where he’s at.”
Appearing on 97.1 The Ticket’s Costa and Jansen with Heather on Thursday, Campbell joked about Anzalone’s readiness:
“He’s got to be able to do a handstand. He’s got to be able to do a handstand press-up. And then really a version of a jumping jack on his hands. And if he can do that, we’re gonna play that guy.”
