Despite having a new offensive coordinator, the Detroit Lions’ run game remains dominant. Through seven games, the Lions rank 7th in rushing yards (133.7) and are tied for third in rushing touchdowns (10). Running backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery continue to play at an elite level and receive the majority of the carries as a result.
Most importantly, both players are healthy and well-rested following their bye last week. However, this isn’t the case for third-string back Craig Reynolds, who suffered a hamstring injury during their Week 7 victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Although they didn’t practice on Wednesday, the Lions listed Reynolds as a DNP in their estimated practice report.
The lingering injury casts doubt on whether he’ll suit up in their upcoming game against the Minnesota Vikings, which is shaping up to be an easier win than fans would have thought.
RB Craig Reynolds Listed as DNP in Wednesday’s Injury Report
Reynolds, 29, is playing in his fifth season for the Lions. An undrafted free agent in 2019, Reynolds bounced from the Washington Commanders to the Jacksonville Jaguars before landing with Detroit. Reynolds had his best season with the Lions in 2021, recording 55 carries for 230 yards, along with seven receptions for 52 yards in five games.
Since then, Reynolds’ role in the offense has decreased, as he now serves as one of the core players on the special teams unit. With Gibbs and Montgomery receiving most of the workload on offense, Reynolds has accumulated just three carries for four yards in six games.
Despite logging just three offensive snaps this season, his importance and value to the Lions cannot be understated. The seven-year veteran is a vital piece to the special teams, recording four tackles and five kickoff returns for 118 yards, earning a 69.7 special teams grade via Pro Football Focus.
Although Reynolds’ role on the offense has decreased the last few years, he remains a serviceable option and has earned the respect of head coach Dan Campbell. If Gibbs or Montgomery find themselves injured or unable to play for any other reason, Reynolds is relied on to fill their void.
When Montgomery missed the last three games last season, the team turned to Reynolds to fill in. Over that three-game span, Reynolds appeared in 47 offensive snaps, recording 19 carries for 88 yards, along with three receptions for 40 yards. Even though he’s hardly on the field with the offense, Reynolds is great in his special teams role and has the trust of his coaches as a reliable alternative if needed.
While it’s too early to determine if Reynolds will take the field on Sunday, his availability on Thursday and Friday’s practice will dictate whether he plays or not. If Reynolds is unable to play, the Lions must hope that second-year player Sione Vaki, who’s missed the last four games with a groin injury, can suit up in his place.