Offensive tackle Penei Sewell struck fear into the hearts of Detroit Lions fans everywhere when he left the field before time ran out in the first half of Monday night’s game against the 49ers.
After the game, Lions coach Dan Campbell said Sewell had a thumb injury, but it was nothing to be concerned about in the long term. Sewell, who was Second-Team All-Pro in 2023, is the catalyst for a Lions offensive line that many consider the best in the league. He returned for the third quarter and helped jump-start a strong second-half performance in a 40-34 win at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.
Sewell is one of the most durable players on the team. He’s missed just one game in his NFL career, which came in his rookie season after he tested positive for Covid.
“He should be good,” Campbell said after the game.
Lions kicker Jake Bates said he was “just a little tight” after being spotted stretching on the sideline, an image that has since become a viral sensation. Bates drilled a 42-yard field goal after the occurrence. He also hit a 57-yard field goal earlier in the night and had an extra point blocked on Detroit’s opening score.
Campbell didn’t rule out the possibility that linebacker and captain Alex Anzalone could be ready to return for the team’s pivotal Week 18 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday Night Football. The winner of the primetime showdown will earn an NFC North title and the NFC’s No. 1 seed.
“We’ll see. He’s doing well,” Campbell said. “He’s close; he’s really close.”
The Lions could desperately use Anzalone’s presence after the team’s linebackers had a rough performance in Monday’s win over the 49ers. Anzalone suffered a broken forearm in the team’s win over Jacksonville on Nov. 17, one of many long-term hits to Detroit’s front seven this season.
REPORT: Lions’ Dan Campbell Gives Injury Update On Penei Sewell, Hints At Return Of Alex Anzalone
In a recent press conference, Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell provided an injury update on two key players, offensive tackle Penei Sewell and linebacker Alex Anzalone, both of whom have been vital to the team’s success this season. As the Lions prepare for their upcoming games, Campbell’s insights offer a sense of optimism for the team’s future performances.
Penei Sewell, one of the standout rookies for the Lions, has been a cornerstone of the team’s offensive line. His performance has been crucial in protecting quarterback Jared Goff and creating running lanes for the Lions’ backfield. However, Sewell has been dealing with a minor injury that has raised concerns among fans and coaches alike. Campbell confirmed that Sewell is recovering well and undergoing treatment but did not specify the exact nature of the injury. Despite this, Campbell seemed confident that Sewell will be back on the field soon, noting that the medical team is taking every precaution to ensure his full recovery before returning to action. “Penei’s been working hard with the trainers, and he’s getting close,” Campbell said. “We’re optimistic that he’ll be ready to go soon, and we’ll keep monitoring his progress.”
The update on Sewell is a positive one, as the Lions have relied heavily on his presence in the offensive line. His return would be a major boost for the team as they aim to remain competitive in a tough NFC North division.
On the defensive side of the ball, Campbell also hinted at the potential return of linebacker Alex Anzalone. Anzalone, who has been dealing with an injury of his own, has been an essential piece in the Lions’ defense. Known for his leadership and playmaking ability, Anzalone’s presence has been missed in recent games. While Campbell did not give a definitive timeline for Anzalone’s return, he mentioned that the linebacker had been progressing well and was expected to be back on the field in the near future. “Alex has been doing well with his rehab,” Campbell noted. “He’s got that drive to come back, and we’re hopeful to have him back soon. His leadership and playmaking will be crucial for us down the stretch.”
Both players have played significant roles in the Lions’ success this season, and their potential return is sure to provide a much-needed boost for the team as they prepare for the rest of the campaign. While Campbell remains cautious about setting specific timelines, the general sentiment around the team is positive, and fans are eager to see these key players back on the field.
As the Lions continue to battle for playoff contention, the return of Sewell and Anzalone could be the difference between securing a spot in the postseason or falling short. The next few weeks will be critical, and the Lions will be closely monitoring the progress of these players as they prepare for their upcoming matchups. With their health improving, both Sewell and Anzalone could soon be back in action, helping to drive the Lions toward a successful finish to the season.
