By Sunday 
Why one lineman’s return feels close — and the other represents what’s next
There’s a certain steadiness to how the Detroit Lions are moving right now. No scrambling. No overreactions. Just calculated steps forward as the season tightens and the stakes rise.
That tone came through clearly when head coach met with reporters following Wednesday’s walkthrough, offering updates on and ahead of Week 16 against the .
Different timelines. Different purposes. But one shared feeling: hope is very much alive.
Christian Mahogany and the Careful Climb Back
There’s cautious optimism surrounding Mahogany, and Campbell didn’t shy away from acknowledging it — without promising anything.
“We’re hopeful,” Campbell said. “We’ll know a lot more tomorrow… full speed tomorrow and Friday, he’ll go through, and then we’ll see if he can go.”
That last part matters. The Lions were encouraged by Mahogany’s progress last week, but not enough to push him back onto the field. That same patience is guiding this decision now.
Detroit isn’t chasing quick fixes. They’re listening to the body, watching the reps, and letting the evaluation play out in real time. Until Mahogany is fully ready, the Lions have leaned on a steady rotation featuring and — not flashy, but functional, and sometimes that’s enough.
Hope is rising, but it’s grounded in discipline.
Giovanni Manu: Reps Now, Payoff Later
If Mahogany’s story is about the present, Manu’s is clearly about the future.
Campbell was direct about why the team started Manu’s practice clock. This isn’t about rushing him into Sunday’s lineup — it’s about getting him back into football shape, mentally and physically.
“He needs reps, practice reps,” Campbell said. “Get out there against our defense, against and … real time practice.”
That kind of work matters. Going against Detroit’s top defenders is about more than conditioning — it’s about timing, reaction, and confidence.
Campbell didn’t sugarcoat the reality either.
“It’s really about getting him set up better for next year.”
If Manu contributes this season, great. If not, the Lions still win by giving him a foundation to build on heading into training camp.
The Bigger Picture: Calm, Confidence, and Control
As Detroit prepares for a critical home matchup, the offensive line tells a familiar story: manage today without sacrificing tomorrow.
Mahogany could stabilize things immediately if he’s ready. Manu represents investment, development, and belief in what’s coming next. And through it all, Campbell’s message stays the same.
No panic.
No blinking.
Just moving forward.
Hope isn’t loud in Detroit right now — but it’s rising all the same.