Lions Unlikely to Land Sebastian Joseph-Day

Lions are near the bottom of the NFL's waiver order.

The Detroit Lions' defensive line took a hit when Alim McNeill was placed on injured reserve. 

McNeill, who isn't eligible to return until Week 18, had been the anchor of the run-stopping unit, while also contributing five sacks. It had been a career-best year for the N.C. State product prior to the injury. 

In his absence, the Lions have relied on Isaiah Buggs, Brodric Martin, Levi Onwuzurike and Benito Jones to fill the void. However, a potential solution could be on the waiver wire in Sebastian Joseph-Day, who was surprisingly waived by the Los Angeles Chargers Friday. 

There are ties between Joseph-Day and the Lions organization. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. During that time, Lions general manager Brad Holmes was the Rams' director of college scouting. 

As a result, there is a common thread that could lead the veteran defensive tackle to Detroit. 

Joseph-Day, 28, has been very productive for the Chargers this season. He's started 14 games, and has logged 31 tackles, along with three sacks. 

Unfortunately for the Lions, however, their current status within the league's waiver order makes it unlikely for them to land the talented defender. 

During the first three weeks of the season, the waiver order is decided by the previous year's NFL Draft order. However, it then shifts to the league's standings. As a result, the Lions will be near the bottom of the order, as a result of their 10-4 record. 

Whoever claims the talented defensive lineman will be on the hook for the remainder of his $6.5 million base salary. He is also under contract for $7.5 million in 2024, but that money is not guaranteed. 

If he is left unclaimed, any team will be free to sign him for the remainder of the season. 

Detroit has made moves to address the depth on its defensive line, signing 14-year NFL vet Tyson Alualu to the practice squad. Alualu has yet to be activated for a game since signing with Detroit on Dec. 5. 

The Lions are also in the midst of a roster crunch, with multiple players due to return from injured reserve soon. Any player activated or added means that the team must also part ways with a player currently on its active roster.