By Sunday 
The Detroit Lions just got a big boost to their defense — and it couldn’t have come at a better time. After weeks of battling through key injuries, two familiar faces are finally back on the practice field: cornerback D.J. Reed and defensive end Marcus Davenport.
Lions Get Defensive Reinforcements
The team opened the 21-day practice window for both players on Wednesday, giving them up to three weeks to be activated to the main roster. That window alone feels like a breath of fresh air for Detroit fans who’ve been waiting for the defense to get back to full strength.
Reed has been out since Week 4 with a hamstring injury suffered in the Lions’ win over Cleveland, while Davenport’s been sidelined even longer — since Week 2 against the Bears — with a chest injury.
Both players are hungry to hit the field again.
“I’m a gamer, so I’m ready,” Reed said with a grin after practice. “But that’s not my call. Obviously, they’re gonna be smart about it. If you ask me, I’m ready to play.”
Davenport shared the same energy, saying it felt “great to finally be back” and that he’s “very excited” to get rolling again.
Campbell Stays Cautious — But Encouraged
Head coach Dan Campbell had previously estimated that Reed might return in early December — and that projection now looks spot-on. Campbell didn’t give a firm update on Davenport’s exact timeline, but he has maintained confidence the veteran edge rusher will return before the end of the season.
In the meantime, Detroit’s defense has held up admirably without them. Amik Robertson has stepped in for Reed at cornerback, while Tyler Lacy has logged heavier reps on the defensive line. But make no mistake — getting Reed’s coverage skills and Davenport’s pass-rushing power back would be a game-changer for the stretch run.
The Rest of the Injury Report
While Reed and Davenport’s return was the headline news, several Lions sat out Wednesday’s practice. Among them: Penei Sewell (ankle), Sam LaPorta (back), Aidan Hutchinson (elbow), and Terrion Arnold (concussion).
The good news? Hutchinson isn’t concerned. “Not at all,” he said when asked if he’s worried about missing Sunday’s game against Philadelphia.
Meanwhile, Malcolm Rodriguez (knee) was a full participant and looks set to make his season debut against the Eagles.
Why This Matters
The Lions’ defense has shown grit and adaptability all season — but depth has been tested week after week. Getting Reed and Davenport back doesn’t just improve the starting lineup; it strengthens the rotation, giving Detroit the flexibility it needs down the stretch of a grueling NFC race.
If both can get back on the field soon, the Lions could be looking at a much sturdier defense heading into the season’s most critical stretch.