The Detroit Lions head into Sunday's season finale against the Chicago Bears with nothing to play for on their end, but that doesn't mean they will back down without a fight. The Lions' chances of completing the season sweep of the Bears will certainly increase if the team's leading receiver, Amon-Ra St. Brown, is cleared to play.
The All-Pro playmaker has been dealing with knee and ankle injuries, and most would argue against him playing in a game that does nothing for Detroit's playoff hopes if he is not 100%. However, head coach Dan Campbell does not see it that way, saying on Friday that St. Brown is "trending the right way" to play versus Chicago, per ESPN Lions reporter Eric Woodyard. He said he plans to practice on Friday and that they will see how he reacts before making a final call.
Amon-Ra St. Brown Might Be Worth Playing in Week 18 Finale
Sure, it does not make much sense to put someone of St. Brown's caliber on the field if he is not fully healthy when there is nothing at stake. If he can play, though, it at least gives Detroit a chance to go into the offseason with some momentum and hurt Chicago's playoff outlook in the process, so Friday's update is quite encouraging, however you view it.
St. Brown leads Detroit in receiving yards (1,262) and TDs (11), recording at least 100 yards four times this season. He also has the fifth-most receptions (106) in the league as he continues to be quarterback Jared Goff's reliable option in the passing attack.
According to Pro Football Focus, St. Brown has the third-best offensive grade (90.1) among the NFL's WRs, while his 90.0 receiving grade is the fourth straight year he's hit that mark or better. You cannot base a player's success on PFF grades alone, but the fact that he ranks so highly in a league full of talented playmakers shows why Campbell is willing to play him in a meaningless game.
If St. Brown is ruled out of Sunday's game, it could represent a potential breakout opportunity for rookie wideout Isaac TeSlaa, who has 11 catches for 156 yards and four TDs in the last five games. With their playoff hopes dashed already, TeSlaa could see an increased role even if St. Brown plays, considering he may not be at full strength regardless.
There is no guarantee St. Brown will play on Sunday, but the odds of winning the game will definitely be greater with him out there. With a three-game losing streak coming in, Detroit needs anything it can get to finish above .500 and sweep an improved Bears team since the Week 2 meeting. ARSB's availability could determine how likely that outcome is amid a frustrating end to the 2025 season for the Lions.