Four Lions Ruled Out against Vikings
The Detroit Lions will be without two key contributors Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings. On Friday, the team ruled both cornerback Jerry Jacobs and tight end Brock Wright out for Sunday's game.
Neither player has practiced this week. Jacobs suffered a hamstring injury in Week 15's win over Denver, while Wright is dealing with a hip injury.
As a result, Khalil Dorsey could make his second consecutive start at cornerback. At tight end, the Lions could lean on James Mitchell to back up Sam LaPorta. Veteran Anthony Firkser could also be activated from the practice squad.
Mitchell has seen increased reps in recent weeks, but has yet to record a catch this season. Firkser has spent the season on the practice squad, but has 112 career catches across five NFL seasons.
Against the Broncos in Week 15, Dorsey made his first career start at cornerback in place of Jacobs. After starting 12 of the first 13 games, Jacobs was relegated to a role on special teams.
Dorsey and Kindle Vildor played the majority of snaps against Denver, and could do so again against Minnesota.
The Lions also designated two players to return to practice this week: safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson and fullback Jason Cabinda.
Campbell said prior to practice Friday that Gardner-Johnson was not expected to play against Detroit’s division rival.
Starting linebacker Derrick Barnes is listed as doubtful this week.
Detroit has an opportunity to win the NFC North division with a win over the Vikings.
Lions' Week 16 Friday injury report
- Jerry Jacobs -- Hamstring OUT
- Brock Wright -- Hip OUT
- Jason Cabinda -- Knee OUT
- C.J. Gardner-Johnson -- OUT
- Derrick Barnes -- Shoulder Doubtful