The Detroit Lions had a few big injury concerns heading into their preparation for the divisional round game against the Washington Commanders this week, with guard Kevin Zeitler being the biggest one.
Zeitler is dealing with a hamstring injury that he initially suffered during the Week 18 win over the Minnesota Vikings, and while he had an extra week to get right thanks to the bye, Zeitler was unable to practice the entire week.
On top of Zeitler, we were also keeping an eye on the statuses of running back David Montgomery and cornerback Terrion Arnold, but it was clear early on during the week that both would play.
The Lions released the final injury report of the week on Thursday and we have full clarity on all three of Detroit’s starters. Here’s the latest update on each.
Kevin Zeitler injury update
Per the team’s final divisional round injury report, Zeitler has been ruled out with his hamstring injury. Zeitler was able to get in some work off to the side with a trainer during the week, but he did not participate in practice at all.
With Zeitler on the shelf for this week, the Lions are going to deploy Christian Mahogany in his place, head coach Dan Campbell revealed. Mahogany got the start in Week 16 when Graham Glasgow was hurt and was phenomenal.
It goes without saying that the Lions would rather have an experienced lineman like Zeitler out there, but if Mahogany can repeat his Week 16 performance, or even just come close to it, Detroit will be just fine.
David Montgomery injury update
While the Lions got bad news on Zeitler, there was good news on Montgomery, who carries no designation for the Lions’ upcoming game against the Commanders.
Montgomery has been expected to return for the divisional round for some time now, so this isn’t of a surprise. The veteran back practiced in full all week and is not expected to have any limitations in his return from a knee injury.
Terrion Arnold injury update
Like Montgomery, Arnold, who was dealing with a foot injury, was able to practice fully all week and was removed from the injury report on Thursday, so he’s good to go.
Now, here’s a look at the full final injury report for both teams.
