As the Detroit Lions kicked off Day 2 of training camp, their injury list remained significant with nine players officially sidelined. However, signs of progress are beginning to emerge. The most encouraging news comes from multiple players working actively with trainers during Monday’s session, hinting at potential early returns.
Some players, such as Malcolm Rodriguez, Khalil Dorsey, and Mekhi Wingo, appeared to be ahead of schedule in their rehab, showing promising movement and intensity during their workouts. These updates offer a glimmer of optimism for the Lions’ medical and coaching staff.
Rodriguez Shows Progress as Lions Navigate Depth Issues in Depleted Cornerback Unit
Rodriguez’s participation in side work raised eyebrows, considering Coach Dan Campbell’s conservative projection of a November return. His pace on Monday suggested he could be trending toward a much earlier comeback.
Similarly, Dorsey and Wingo moved with energy under trainer supervision, suggesting their stints on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list might not last much longer. Josh Paschal and Stantley Thomas-Oliver also did rehab work, although at a more modest tempo. Paschal’s estimated return is still pegged around Labor Day, giving the team cautious optimism about depth on the edge.
Malcolm Rodriguez (NFL)The cornerback unit was especially thin on Monday, with four players—Khalil Dorsey, Stantley Thomas-Oliver, D.J. Reed, and Ennis Rakestraw—out of action. While Rakestraw’s scans came back clean and he is only expected to miss a few days, Reed’s absence remains a mystery.
With no official injury report and possible family-related absence due to his wife’s pregnancy, his status remains unclear. In the meantime, safety Erick Hallett and newcomers Dicaprio Bootle and Tyson Russell were called upon to fill the void at cornerback, giving them valuable reps in a depleted secondary.
Fresh Setbacks Emerge, but Lions Hope for Shorter Injury List Moving Forward
The Lions’ injury woes grew slightly on Monday with in-practice setbacks to running back Sione Vaki and defensive tackle Roy Lopez. Vaki appeared to injure his leg during route-running drills and was eventually removed from practice after extended time with trainers.
Lopez, on the other hand, pulled himself out during team drills and spent time on the sidelines before ultimately leaving the field. While no official updates have been given post-practice, both injuries will be closely monitored in the days ahead.
On a positive note, linebacker Anthony Pittman made a full return to practice. He had announced his impending comeback the day before and showed no signs of limitation during Monday’s session.
With several players beginning to rehab on the field and Pittman rejoining the active roster, the Lions could soon see their lengthy injury list begin to shorten. As training camp continues, all eyes will be on how quickly sidelined players can return to full participation and help the team prepare for the upcoming season.
