There were a number of positives to take away from the Lions’ first preseason game on Sunday, but it came at a substantial price. Defensive end Kerry Hyder was carted off the field and suffered a torn Achilles. He has since then been ruled out for the entire 2017 season.
As the team now scrambles to figure out adequate replacements for Hyder on the front line, the former Texas Tech product is hopeful that he can return to the field sooner than initial ruling.
Hyder shared a post on his Instagram account, talking about how he promises Lions fans to “be back and better than ever.”
“There is no quit in my body! I truly believe God has a plan for me and I will be back better than ever. I am blessed beyond measure and I know this is not setback . It is an opportunity for me to show my strength that God has put in me . All things are possible through him. Thank you to all the friends and family for support . To lions nation, I promise I will be back better than ever . Thank you all !! #onepride#lionsnation“
The Lions will have to somehow replace what was truly a breakout performance in 2016 for Hyder, when he led the team with 8.0 sacks up front. It now adds workload and pressure to virtually everyone on the defensive line. Perhaps nobody will need to step up more than Ziggy Ansah, who has been dealing with some nagging injuries himself.
And coming off a down year in 2016, the Lions will be turning to their former No. 5 overall pick in 2013 to lead the way.
