As the Detroit Lions prepare for a postseason run that could lead them to their first Super Bowl in over 60 years, one key factor that will play a significant role in their success is health. The team has been relatively fortunate with injuries this season, but like any team, they’ve had their share of setbacks. With the playoffs just around the corner, the big question is: which players could the Lions get back in time to make a difference on their playoff push?
In this post, we’ll break down the current injury situation for the Lions and look at which players might return to action in time to contribute to a deep playoff run. The Lions’ medical staff has worked diligently to manage injuries and ensure key players are available when it matters most. Let’s dive into the key injuries and the players that could potentially make their return in time for the playoffs.
### **1. Jahmyr Gibbs (RB) – Ankle Injury**
One of the most exciting players for the Lions this season has been rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs. The former Alabama standout quickly became a key piece of Detroit’s high-powered offense, displaying elite speed and agility out of the backfield as both a runner and a receiver. However, a nagging ankle injury has sidelined him for a few games, and it has kept him from fully realizing his potential in recent weeks.
Gibbs is expected to return to full health ahead of the playoffs. The injury was initially thought to be more severe, but reports indicate that the team has been cautious with his recovery. Given his explosive playmaking ability, having Gibbs back in the lineup could give Detroit’s offense a major boost. His versatility would complement David Montgomery’s tough, physical running style, providing the Lions with a dynamic two-headed backfield.
If Gibbs is fully healthy, he could be a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. His ability to line up in the slot, as well as out of the backfield, would give Detroit’s offensive coordinator, Ben Johnson, the flexibility to create mismatches. His return would also help take some of the pressure off Jared Goff and the passing game, adding an additional weapon that defenses would need to account for.
### **2. Jameson Williams (WR) – Hamstring Injury**
Speedy wide receiver Jameson Williams has had an up-and-down rookie season, largely due to a hamstring injury that has lingered since early in the year. The former Alabama star was expected to make an immediate impact with his deep-threat ability, but injuries and a slow start have limited his contributions so far.
Williams has been getting closer to full strength as the season progresses, and reports suggest that he could be back in the fold for the Lions’ playoff run. In recent weeks, the team has gradually increased his snap count and usage in the offense, and Williams has started to look more like the player the Lions drafted with the 12th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Having Williams available in the playoffs would add a completely new dimension to the Lions’ passing game. His elite speed is something few defenses can match, and it could open up opportunities for other playmakers, like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Josh Reynolds, to work underneath. The potential of Williams stretching the field would make Detroit’s offense even more dangerous.
With the Lions’ passing game already thriving, adding a healthy Williams could be the X-factor that pushes them over the top in high-stakes playoff games. If he’s at full speed, he could be a key contributor in Detroit’s playoff offense.
### **3. David Montgomery (RB) – Rib Injury**
David Montgomery has been the workhorse of Detroit’s offense this season. The gritty running back has provided stability in the backfield and has consistently churned out tough yards, even in the most challenging situations. Unfortunately, Montgomery suffered a rib injury that forced him to miss some time, and his status for the playoffs has been a point of concern for Lions fans.
However, there is optimism that Montgomery will be able to return to the field when it matters most. While the rib injury is painful and has kept him out for a few weeks, Montgomery has a reputation for being a tough, physical player who plays through injuries. His hard-nosed running style has been a key asset for Detroit’s offense, and his return would give the Lions a steady, reliable option in the backfield.
The combination of Montgomery’s power running and Gibbs’ speed would provide a well-balanced attack that could wear down opposing defenses. Having Montgomery back would also reduce the strain on Jared Goff and the passing game, as the threat of the run would force defenses to respect both aspects of the offense. If Montgomery is cleared for playoff action, he will be a vital piece in Detroit’s quest for a deep playoff run.
### **4. Jerry Jacobs (CB) – Knee Injury**
The Lions’ defense has been a pleasant surprise this season, and one of the cornerstones of that unit has been cornerback Jerry Jacobs. Known for his tenacity and physicality, Jacobs has been a key contributor to the Lions’ secondary, but a knee injury has caused him to miss some time recently. The good news for Detroit is that Jacobs is expected to be available for the playoffs.
Jacobs’ return would be a major boost to the Lions’ defense, especially with the postseason matchups likely to feature high-powered passing offenses. His ability to match up against big receivers and make plays on the ball would provide more stability to a secondary that has already seen strong play from players like Cam Sutton and Kerby Joseph.
The Lions will need Jacobs’ ability to lock down wide receivers and prevent big plays down the field. If Jacobs is at full health, he will be a key component of Detroit’s defensive backfield in their playoff games.
### **5. Josh Paschal (DE) – Hamstring Injury**
Defensive end Josh Paschal has been one of the Lions’ more promising young players on defense. Known for his versatility and strong pass-rushing ability, Paschal was expected to play a significant role in the Lions’ defensive line rotation this season. However, a lingering hamstring injury has kept him sidelined for a portion of the year.
The good news is that Paschal is nearing a return, and there is optimism that he will be ready to contribute in the playoffs. His ability to rush the passer and defend the run makes him an important piece for the Lions’ defense. With playoff games likely to feature elite quarterbacks and powerful offenses, having a fully healthy Paschal would provide the Lions with another weapon to pressure opposing signal-callers and disrupt the passing game.
If Paschal can regain his form, he will be a critical part of Detroit’s defensive front, complementing the efforts of Aidan Hutchinson and others along the defensive line.
### **6. Frank Ragnow (C) – Toe Injury**
Frank Ragnow, one of the best centers in the NFL, has been playing through a toe injury that has caused him some discomfort this season. Despite this, Ragnow has continued to perform at a high level, helping anchor one of the best offensive lines in the league. However, if the Lions hope to make a deep playoff run, it will be important for Ragnow to be as close to 100% as possible.
Reports indicate that Ragnow has been managing the injury well, and there’s hope he will be fully ready for the playoffs. Having Ragnow healthy will be critical to keeping Jared Goff clean in the pocket and establishing a strong running game. If he is back to full health, the Lions’ offensive line will remain one of the team’s biggest strengths, providing the necessary protection for Goff and the running backs to execute.
### **Conclusion**
As the Detroit Lions enter the postseason with high hopes for a Super Bowl run, the health of key players will play a crucial role in their success. The potential returns of Jahmyr Gibbs, Jameson Williams, David Montgomery, Jerry Jacobs, Josh Paschal, and Frank Ragnow could provide the Lions with the depth and talent they need to compete with the best teams in the NFL.
If Detroit can get these players back and at full strength, they will be a formidable team in the playoffs. The team’s offensive firepower, defensive improvements, and overall depth make them a serious contender. The Lions’ road to the Super Bowl may be tough, but with a full-strength roster, Detroit could very well make history this season.