Detroit Lions captain Alex Anzalone is making progress in his recovery from a brain injury and could play in Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals. Anzalone returned to practice on Thursday, clearing an important hurdle in the NFL’s concussion protocol. If he remains symptom-free and practices without restrictions on Friday, he may be cleared to play.
Anzalone has been a key contributor to the Lions’ defense this season, leading the team in tackles (17) and ranking second behind Aidan Hutchinson in tackles for loss (three). Additionally, as the defensive play-caller, he wears the green dot, signaling his importance in organizing the defense.
In more positive news for the Lions, guard Graham Glasgow returned to practice after dealing with a knee injury. However, the team continues to struggle with injuries in the defensive backfield. First-round pick Terrion Arnold (illness), second-round pick Ennis Rakestraw (hamstring), and safety Ifeatu Melifonwu (ankle) have all missed practice time.
Melifonwu, in particular, has been dealing with an ankle injury and has only practiced once since Detroit’s preseason game in Kansas City last month. Given his limited practice participation, it appears unlikely that he will be available for Sunday’s game against the Cardinals.
With these injuries, Detroit’s secondary remains short-handed, adding to the challenge as they prepare to face Arizona. The Lions will hope to get key players like Anzalone back on the field to strengthen their defense, but their banged-up secondary remains a concern heading into the matchup.
