UPDATE: The Detroit Lions are grappling with a significant defensive setback as they prepare to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on October 23, 2023. All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph has been ruled out for the crucial Monday Night Football showdown, marking a tough decision by the coaching staff to give him an additional week of rest due to a lingering knee injury.
In a further blow to their secondary, safety Brian Branch will also miss the game while serving a one-game suspension. With D.J. Reed on injured reserve and both Avonte Maddox (hamstring) and Terrion Arnold (shoulder) sidelined, the Lions will enter the game without their top three safeties and two of their top three cornerbacks.
Joseph’s knee issues have plagued him since training camp, forcing him out of practice and limiting his playtime in recent games. While the Lions reported that he is improving, they have opted for a cautious approach, allowing him to recuperate during the upcoming bye week. Arnold, who returned to practice this week, will also benefit from the extra time to heal, aiming for a return against the Minnesota Vikings after the bye.
The Lions are expected to start Amik Robertson and Rock Ya-Sin at outside cornerback, with the team rotating players at nickelback. Last week, linebackers Alex Anzalone and Derrick Barnes filled that role effectively, while Arthur Maulet provided depth. New addition Jammie Robinson, signed earlier this week, may see action in his debut despite being a late arrival.
As the Lions gear up for the game, they are also keeping a close watch on the health of key players. Left tackle Taylor Decker is listed as questionable but is trending positively toward returning after missing the last two games. While he did not practice on Saturday, the coaching staff remains hopeful for his return.
Defensive lineman Alim McNeill is set to make his much-anticipated season debut. After three weeks of practice, he has been a full participant for the last two and is eager to contribute. “I’m 100% ready to roll against the Buccaneers,” McNeill stated. He emphasized his focus on the game rather than the significance of his return, saying, “Let’s just go play football.”
The Lions will also be without running back Sione Vaki, who is sidelined with a groin injury sustained against the Baltimore Ravens nearly a month ago.
The stakes are high for the Lions as they face the Buccaneers, needing a strong defensive performance despite the challenges. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring the Lions’ adjustments and player performances as they head into this pivotal matchup.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as kickoff approaches.
