The Detroit Lions got some big news on Wednesday, as head coach Dan Campbell confirmed that defensive tackle Alim McNeill has officially returned to practice. That move opens the team’s 21-day evaluation window, giving Detroit the chance to determine when he’s ready to rejoin the active roster.
McNeill’s Clock Is Ticking
“We’re starting Mac’s clock today,” Campbell said. “He’s ready to go. Like I said, I feel sorry for some of those guys who will have to line up across from him. He’s ready to go. He’s ready to start practicing.”
It’s the first time McNeill has been back on the field since tearing his ACL last December, and the Lions couldn’t be happier to see him moving toward a return.
What the 21-Day Window Means
By activating McNeill’s practice window, the Lions can now work him back into drills and evaluate his progress without having to immediately add him to the 53-man roster. Detroit has three weeks to make the call on when to remove him from the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list.
That means his first game back could come as early as Week 5 against the Bengals, or possibly in Week 6 vs. the Chiefs or Week 7 on Monday Night Football against the Bucs. The Lions could also play it safe and wait until after their Week 8 bye.
Why It Matters for Detroit
McNeill is one of Detroit’s most important defensive linemen, a player capable of clogging the middle and demanding double teams. His return would not only add physicality to the run defense but also free up playmakers like Aidan Hutchinson and rookie Tyleik Williams to make more plays.
Detroit’s defense has already been one of the most physical units in the NFC. Adding McNeill back to the mix would take it to another level.
The Bottom Line
The Lions are 3-1 and very much in the hunt for their third straight NFC North crown. Getting Alim McNeill back on the field in the coming weeks would be a huge boost at just the right time.
For now, the clock is ticking, and as Campbell hinted, the rest of the league better be ready when No. 54 makes his return.
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