The Lions are 11-1 for the first time in their history, having won 10 consecutive games. They lead the toughest division in football and are currently the NFC’s top seed. However, their performance remains unpredictable due to numerous defensive injuries.

They’ve lost their star players, key starters, vital reserves, and depth—factors that could have supported them through the season. These injuries are the only real setback to their strong start.

Coach Campbell reflected on the situation, noting that last year they were among the healthiest teams, and this year’s injuries were simply a rare, unfortunate occurrence. He emphasized that injuries are part of the game, and teams must overcome them as they come.

With five regular-season games remaining, the Lions need to get their defense back to full strength as the Eagles (10-2), Vikings (10-2), and Packers (9-3) remain close in the NFC and division standings.

Here’s a breakdown of players who are out for the season, those who could return, and those stepping up in the meantime.

Out for the season:

• DE John Cominsky (knee): Cominsky tore his MCL during training camp, which has sidelined him for most of the season. While there was hope for a return, it seems unlikely he’ll play again until January, if at all.
• DE Aidan Hutchinson (leg): Hutchinson was having an outstanding season but is now out with a leg injury. Before his injury, he was ranked 10th in pressures among edge rushers. The Lions hope for a potential Super Bowl return, though it’s not certain.
• DE Marcus Davenport (elbow): Davenport, who was brought in to complement Hutchinson, suffered an elbow injury in Week 3 that will keep him out for the rest of the season.
• DT Kyle Peko (torn pec): Peko’s season ended with a torn pec against the Cowboys. He was a reliable veteran rotational player, and his absence weakened the defensive depth.
• LB Derrick Barnes (knee): Barnes tore his meniscus in Week 3. His versatility as a linebacker was valuable to the defense, but a return this season, including the playoffs, is unlikely.
• LB Malcolm Rodriguez (knee): Rodriguez, who had stepped up in place of the injured Alex Anzalone, suffered a torn ACL. His season is over, and he may miss part of the 2025 season as well.
• DT Mekhi Wingo (knee): Wingo, a rookie reserve, also suffered a knee injury that requires season-ending surgery, ending his year after a strong performance against the Bears.

Other pre-season losses include UDFA DE Nate Lynn (shoulder) and veteran DT David Bada, both of whom could have contributed had they been healthy.

Could return before the season ends:

• LB Alex Anzalone: Anzalone, a team captain, broke his forearm in the Jaguars game, sidelining him for most of the regular season. However, he could return in late December, which would allow him to regain some freshness for the playoffs. His absence is a challenge, but not the worst-case scenario for the Lions.