By Sunday 
The Detroit Lions’ gritty, no-excuses mentality is about to get a massive injection of muscle later this year. Defensive tackle Alim McNeill — affectionately known among fans as the “Motor City Monster” — is on track to make his long-awaited return sometime between late October and November after tearing his ACL in December 2024.
A Setback That Still Stings
McNeill’s absence loomed large down the stretch last season. The former third-round pick out of NC State had been a cornerstone of the Lions’ interior defensive line — logging close to 70% of the team’s defensive snaps when healthy. But after suffering a second significant knee injury in as many seasons, his 2024 campaign ended prematurely, and so did Detroit’s postseason dreams.
While McNeill missed the final three games and the playoffs, the Lions clearly haven’t lost faith in their big man up front. In fact, they doubled down on him last fall with a hefty four-year, $97 million extension. That kind of investment signals belief — not just in his talent, but in his future.
Patience Now, Payoff Later
Per team insider Tim Twentyman, the Lions are not about to rush McNeill back onto the field. The franchise is looking long-term, not just for 2025 but well into 2026, when McNeill is due nearly $20 million in guaranteed salary. There’s also a $3 million injury clause that could convert to a full guarantee if things go sideways — so yeah, the stakes are high.
But if all goes to plan? Detroit’s defensive front could look absolutely terrifying just in time for a late-season playoff push.
Who’s Holding It Down in the Meantime?
Let’s not pretend replacing McNeill’s impact is easy — or even fully possible — but the Lions haven’t just been sitting around.
They brought back Levi Onwuzurike, and added Roy Lopez and Raequan Williams to keep the rotation fresh. But the most intriguing name in the mix is rookie Tyleik Williams, the No. 28 overall pick from April’s draft.
Williams was seen by many as a second-round steal, and the Lions didn’t want to take any chances watching him go elsewhere. Knowing McNeill’s timetable, Detroit prioritized the Ohio State standout — betting big that he can plug the gap until their Motor City Monster is back on his feet (and in opposing backfields).
Eyes on October (And Beyond)
For McNeill, this season isn’t just about making a return — it’s about making a statement. Three straight years of injury-limited appearances have clouded his otherwise ascending trajectory. But if he can come back strong and help anchor the Lions’ defensive front late in the season, it could swing the NFC North race — or even the conference — in Detroit’s favor.
And if you’re an opposing quarterback reading this: enjoy the pocket while it’s clean. Because come November, Alim McNeill’s back on the menu — and he’s hungry.