By Moses Joshua 
Lions coach tempers expectations for veteran cornerback’s return as injuries continue to test Detroit’s secondary.
A Slow Road Back for Reed
The Detroit Lions’ secondary might have to wait longer than anticipated for its veteran anchor to return. Cornerback D.J. Reed, sidelined since late September with a lingering hamstring injury, was initially projected to rejoin the lineup by late November. Now, according to head coach Dan Campbell, that timeline has been pushed back — and optimism has dimmed.
Speaking with the Detroit Free Press’ Dave Birkett on Friday, Campbell acknowledged that Reed’s recovery is taking “a little longer than we’d hoped,” adding that an “early December” return now appears more realistic. It’s an update that underscores both the team’s caution and the frustrating nature of soft-tissue injuries that have plagued several Lions defenders this season.
Detroit’s Defense Feeling the Strain
Reed’s extended absence has been particularly tough on a Lions defense already walking a fine line between youth and experience. Since losing their veteran corner, rookies Terrion Arnold and Brian Branch have shouldered much of the burden, flashing promise but also showing the expected growing pains of young players adjusting to high-pressure roles.
Without Reed’s leadership and discipline on the perimeter, Detroit’s pass defense has struggled to maintain the same cohesion it displayed early in the year. The Lions have experimented with various rotations to compensate, but the loss of Reed’s communication and awareness in coverage has been felt on every down.
Campbell Staying Patient Amid the Setback
Despite the discouraging update, Campbell made it clear that the team’s medical staff is taking no shortcuts with Reed’s recovery. With the Lions in the thick of a playoff chase, the focus remains on ensuring he’s fully healthy for the stretch run rather than rushing him back prematurely.
“The good news,” Campbell emphasized, “is that D.J. is progressing — it’s just taking time.” The team hopes that by exercising patience now, Reed can return as the steadying force he’s been throughout his career, rather than risk a re-aggravation that could end his season entirely.
Holding the Line
For now, the Lions’ secondary will need to hold the fort without their veteran cornerback, relying on depth and continued growth from younger players. Reed’s return — whenever it comes — could serve as a timely boost for a defense that’s shown flashes of dominance but has struggled with consistency.
Detroit fans, meanwhile, will have to keep waiting and watching — hoping that when No. 4 finally steps back onto the field, he’ll be ready to make the impact the Lions need for their postseason push.