As the Detroit Lions prepare for their Week 18 showdown against the Chicago Bears, fans are checking the latest depth chart updates to see who’s active, who’s sidelined, and how the team plans to close out the season.
Here’s what we know from the official Lions Week 18 depth chart and injury report:
📌 Key Inactives / Confirmed Outs
Penei Sewell — OUT
The All-Pro tackle has been ruled out, leaving a big hole on the right side of the offensive line. This shifts Detroit’s line continuity as backups step up against Chicago’s pass rush.
Alex Anzalone — OUT
The veteran linebacker and defensive leader won’t play, meaning Detroit’s front seven will have to rely more on depth options and rotation to manage opposing run and pass sets.
📌 Questionable but Expected to Play
Amon-Ra St. Brown — QUESTIONABLE
Despite knee/ankle issues, St. Brown is trending toward playing and was listed on the depth chart with limited practice reps this week. Expect him to be in the lineup to give Detroit its best offensive chance.
📌 Depth Chart Adjustments
With Sewell out, backup offensive linemen move up, and the Lions are expected to redistribute snaps among rotational blockers. This opens opportunities for younger linemen to showcase their readiness heading into the offseason.
On defense, Detroit’s linebacker spot receives a shakeup with Anzalone unavailable. Expect younger ‘backers and special teams standouts to see increased reps and live looks in game conditions.
In the secondary and pass rush rotation, no major changes have been announced beyond injury-related shifts, but the Lions will tailor matchups based on Chicago personnel and game flow.
🔍 What to Watch
Offensive Line Performance: With Sewell out, protection for Jared Goff will be under a microscope. Can Detroit’s backups slow Chicago’s edge rushers and open holes for the run game?
Skill Usage: If St. Brown plays, the Lions will need to lean on his leadership and savvy route running to sustain drives.
Defensive Rotation: With Anzalone out, rookie and depth players get an audition — this could determine offseason roster decisions.
🧠 Bottom Line
Detroit’s Week 18 depth chart reflects a mix of necessity and evaluation. While injuries have forced changes, the finale gives the Lions a chance to see depth pieces in action and build experience for 2026. It won’t be the same group that started the year, but the adjustments highlight where Detroit’s future strength — or questions — may lie.
Lions Reveal Week 18 Depth Chart vs. Bears — Here Are the Key Adjustments
