When the Detroit Lions ruled out defensive end DJ Wonnum ahead of Week 9, many assumed that we would finally see Ahmed Hassanein in action. The 24-year-old defender has been a healthy scratch all season despite emerging as a breakout star in training camp and the preseason. But even in Wonnum's absence, the Lions opted against playing Hassanein. Instead, they elevated Anthony Lucas from the practice squad and gave him 12 defensive snaps.
It's clearly not a good sign that a practice squad player is above Hassanein in the pecking order. Even though Hassanein made the 53-man roster, he has yet to make his NFL debut. This raises questions about his future with the team and in the league.
Why is Ahmed Hassanein not playing at all?
Heading into the matchup against the Dolphins, the expectation was that Hassanein would suit up. Aidan Hutchinson explicitly said this in his interview on 97.1 The Ticket, before adding that the former Boise State standout is itching to play and can't wait to get on the field.
If Hassanein isn't going to play when Wonnum is hurt, when will he ever have the coaching staff's trust?
It's not like the Lions needed Hassanein on Sunday. Derrick Moore played a career-high 33 snaps, which resulted in the first two sacks of his career. Aidan Hutchinson essentially played every snap, Tyler Lacy got some action on the outside, and the Lions had Lucas to take care of the rest. The Lions' pass rush looked solid against the Dolphins, so it's hard to blame them for not utilizing Hassanein.
But it's still difficult to understand what the problem is here. Hassanein was very good in the preseason, completely dominating the Bengals. He made a ton of plays and brought a ton of intensity. He embodies the Lions' character as well as anyone else on the team. He plays hard, never wanted to play for any other team, and he seems to be an excellent locker room presence.
That is why he has become a fan favorite in Detroit despite never playing in a regular-season game. And that is why Lions fans desperately want to see what he can do on the field.
The weird part is that we have heard nothing but praise about Hassanein throughout his Lions tenure. So, it's hard to know what is actually keeping him from suiting up. Why are they wasting a roster spot on a player whom they have no intention of playing?
Let's hope we can get an answer to this question sooner rather than later. Otherwise, Lions fans will continue to wonder why their favorite reserve is on the inactive list week in and week out.
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