The Detroit Lions are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the San Francisco 49ers in just a few hours, and they’ve made a series of strategic roster moves to ensure they have their best possible lineup on the field. With every game counting as the season intensifies, the Lions are pulling out all the stops. Here’s a breakdown of the moves they’ve made to strengthen their squad ahead of Monday night’s game:

Activation of Jalen Reeves-Maybin
First up, we’ve got some major news that Lions fans will be excited to hear: Jalen Reeves-Maybin has been activated from the injured reserve. This is a significant boost to the team’s defense and special teams. Reeves-Maybin is widely regarded as one of the best special teams players in the NFL, and his return is sure to make an immediate impact. His ability to make plays on defense is an added bonus, and he’s known for his leadership on the field. With the Lions gearing up for an important game, having Reeves-Maybin back in the lineup will provide a sense of stability and strength in both the defensive and special teams units. Expect to see him making some key contributions on Monday night.

Elevation of Jeramar Jefferson from the Practice Squad
Next up, Jeramar Jefferson is getting the call-up from the practice squad. After making his first regular-season appearance since 2021 in last week’s game, Jefferson showed he still has plenty to offer, contributing with a solid 10-yard catch for a first down. While Jahmyr Gibbs will certainly be the focal point of the running game, and Sion Vaki and Craig Reynolds are expected to get their share of carries, Jefferson could see more action on Monday night. With the running back corps being crucial to the Lions’ offensive strategy, Jefferson’s elevation is an opportunity for him to showcase his skills and make an impact, whether it’s in the backfield or as a receiving option out of the backfield. The Lions are always looking for a spark, and Jefferson could be the one to provide it.

Elevation of Chris Smith from the Practice Squad
Finally, the Lions are elevating Chris Smith from the practice squad for the third time this season. Smith, often regarded as a lunch-pail player due to his hard-working, no-nonsense approach, has been a reliable contributor when called upon. Despite not seeing a lot of action in the games he’s been active for, there’s hope that Monday night could be different. This move is a testament to the Lions’ trust in his abilities. Smith has also been signed to the 53-man roster twice this season, a clear sign of the team’s belief in his potential. He brings a gritty, blue-collar mentality to the team, and his presence could provide a much-needed boost in the trenches or on special teams.

With these roster moves, the Detroit Lions are positioning themselves to make a deep run in this crucial game. The return of Reeves-Maybin strengthens both their defense and special teams, while the elevations of Jefferson and Smith provide depth and versatility, offering the coaching staff a broader range of options for this high-stakes matchup. As the Lions continue to fight for playoff positioning, these moves could be the difference-makers that tip the scales in their favor. The stage is set for a thrilling Monday night game, and the Lions are more than ready to rise to the occasion.