By Moses Joshua 
Reinforcements Arrive as Detroit Prepares for High-Stakes Showdown with the Eagles
The Detroit Lions are rounding into full strength at just the right time. After a commanding 44-22 win over the Washington Commanders in Week 10, head coach Dan Campbell’s squad received a major boost on Wednesday as two defensive starters — cornerback DJ Reed and edge rusher Marcus Davenport — officially returned to practice.
According to NFL.com, both players were limited participants, but their presence alone represents a significant step toward returning to game action as the Lions eye a pivotal Week 11 clash with the defending NFC champion Philadelphia Eagles.
DJ Reed’s Return Bolsters Detroit’s Secondary Stability
When healthy, DJ Reed has been the Lions’ top outside cornerback — a lockdown defender whose blend of physicality and instincts has anchored Detroit’s coverage schemes. Reed suffered a severe hamstring strain in October, an injury he initially feared could end his season. Fortunately, the recovery timeline has been far more favorable.
Head coach Dan Campbell hinted last week that Reed was “doing well” and trending toward an early December return. But with the team opening his 21-day practice window, the veteran corner could be back even sooner — potentially in time to face the Eagles’ dynamic passing attack.
Before his injury, Reed was putting together a standout campaign. In just four games, he allowed only 11 receptions on 18 targets, held opponents to a passer rating of 61.3, and ranked as Pro Football Focus’s fourth-best run-defending cornerback. His ability to contain both the pass and the perimeter run game makes him indispensable to Detroit’s defensive balance.
With Terrion Arnold still navigating concussion protocol and Amik Robertson stepping up in his absence, Reed’s return couldn’t come at a better time. His presence should immediately elevate a Lions defense that already ranks 12th in pass yards allowed per game.
Marcus Davenport Adds Depth and Power to the Edge
On the defensive front, Marcus Davenport’s return is equally encouraging — though the team is expected to ease him back into action. Davenport has been sidelined since Week 2 with a pectoral injury, marking yet another setback in what has been a frustrating stretch of injuries for the talented pass rusher.
Despite limited availability over the past three seasons, the Lions remain confident Davenport can contribute meaningful snaps down the stretch. Campbell has consistently voiced optimism, saying, “I am just very confident he is going to be back. We’re going to get him back here.”
In Davenport’s absence, Aidan Hutchinson has continued to dominate — leading the NFL with 57 pressures — while veteran Al-Quadin Muhammad has enjoyed a breakout year, tallying six sacks through nine games. Davenport’s return gives Detroit another versatile, power-based edge defender who can rotate in and keep fresh legs on the field during long drives.
The Lions also re-signed rookie Ahmed Hassanein to the practice squad, further bolstering their edge depth as the team prepares for the physical matchups that await in November and December.
Detroit’s Defense Gears Up for a Deep Playoff Push
With Reed and Davenport both nearing full health, the Lions’ defense is poised to regain the balance that helped fuel their early-season dominance. Detroit sits atop the NFC North at 6-3 and now looks to build on that momentum against the Eagles in what could serve as a postseason preview.
Campbell’s message remains consistent — focus, health, and discipline. If the Lions can maintain all three, the return of two key defensive starters could be the spark that propels Detroit from playoff hopefuls to true Super Bowl contenders.