Dan Campbell took to the podium on Wednesday and gave a definitive answer on his team’s attitude ahead of this Sunday’s NFC Championship game against the San Francisco 49ers.
A fidgety Campbell told a crowded Allen Park media room the following:
“This will be an outstanding test for us. But it’s one we’re ready for. We’re built to handle this. Our guys are ready to roll.”
The third-year head coach also confirmed his vision for the Lions’ often inconsistent defense. Detroit has played aggressively but is prone to surrendering explosive offensive plays, primarily through the air. Campbell said:
“Look, we may get hit on a couple of things, and I know, for me, I’m willing to give up something to get something. And sometimes things may happen, but that’s okay because it’ll pay dividends by the time you hit the fourth quarter.”
The Lions also provided an update on veteran tight end Zach Ertz:
“I know he’s in shape. I talked to him the other day. He understands we’re just going to gauge this and see where we’re at.”
Lions Roster Moves
The Lions announced several roster moves on Wednesday afternoon. Sadly for Brock Wright, his season is over. The tight end broke his arm last Sunday. Veteran defensive lineman Tyson Alualu is now on the active roster, while Ertz is on the practice squad.
#Lions announce roster moves:
Placed TE Brock Wright on Injured Reserve.
Signed DL Tyson Alualu to the Active Roster from the Practice Squad.
Signed TE Zach Ertz to the Practice Squad.
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) January 24, 2024
Practice Report
The Lions ended the game battered and bruised against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Wright is now on injured reserve. Guard Jonah Jackson will likely miss this Sunday’s matchup, while Alex Anzalone played with fractured ribs against Tampa.
Detroit held a walkthrough on Wednesday afternoon. Injury designations are estimated. Nevertheless, the Lions did release an injury report:
- Jonah Jackson, Guard, Knee – No Practice
- Sam LaPorta, Tight End, Knee – No Practice
- Frank Ragnow, Center, Knee/Back/Toe/Ankle – No Practice
- Kalif Raymond, Wide Receiver, Knee – No Practice
- Alex Anzalone, Linebacker, Ribs – Limited Practice
- Josh Reynold, Wide Receiver, Ribs – Limited Practice
- James Houston, Linebacker, Knee – Full Practice