The Lions will have reinforcements on both sides of the ball for tomorrow night’s crucial game. Wide receiver Kalif Raymond and linebacker Alex Anzalone have both been activated from injured reserve, according to a team announcement.
Raymond had been sidelined on injured reserve since November due to a foot injury but resumed practicing last week, opening his 21-day activation window. Bringing him back to the active roster in time for Week 18 required today’s move.
Raymond’s return adds depth to the passing game, complementing top targets Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and tight end Sam LaPorta. While Detroit’s offense has been relatively healthier than its defense this season, Raymond’s availability, particularly as a top punt returner, is a welcome boost heading into the playoffs.
Anzalone’s return is also a significant development as the Lions aim to secure the NFC’s top seed. The 30-year-old began his practice window on Wednesday, though there were doubts about his readiness for tomorrow’s game.
Listed as questionable due to a broken forearm that led to his IR stint, his activation strongly indicates he is set to play. If Anzalone suits up, Detroit’s defense will regain a key starter in the linebacking corps, bolstering their efforts in a critical matchup.
However, not all injury news is positive for the Lions. Cornerback Emmanuel Moseley has been placed on the reserve/non-football injury list, sidelining him for at least four games and effectively ending his season. Moseley’s Lions debut in 2023 was cut short by an ACL tear in Week 1, and his follow-up campaign has been marred by setbacks.
Limited to just two games this year, the pending free agent’s stock is likely to take a hit. His absence, along with that of fellow corner Carlton Davis, leaves Detroit thin in the secondary at a pivotal time.
The Lions still have several players who could return if they make a deep playoff run. Securing the NFC North title and the first-round bye would give them more time to recover key contributors.
However, a loss to the Vikings in the regular season finale would drop Detroit to the No. 5 seed. Regardless, increasing the number of healthy players will be essential for the team’s postseason success.
