The Detroit Lions have an interesting decision to make this week when it comes to star corner D.J. Reed. Coming off a hamstring injury that has kept the defender out of the lineup for the last weeks of the season, it would be understandable if the franchise opted to take a cautious approach. However, according to SB Nation's Jeremy Reisman, Reed is ready to take the field for the Sunday Night Football showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles, offering the following sentiment.
"“I’m a gamer, so I’m ready. But that’s not my call. Obviously, they’re going to be smart about it. But if you ask me, I’m ready to play. That’s my mindset.”"D.J. Reed
This is a clear message from a player who will be ready to take the field, regardless of whether it is the best decision for his health. Reed is the definition of a gamer and obviously wants to play his part in an important NFC showdown. Beating the Eagles has huge playoff implications in the NFC and would perhaps establish the Lions as the clear threat in the conference. Still, Detroit cannot afford to rush the corner back if there is any level of concern.
Lions Have Impossible Decision to Make on Protecting D.J. Reed Longer
In truth, the wiser move here is to wait until closer to December, understanding that you need Reed healthy when the games matter most. The Lions are already dealing with numerous injuries in the secondary and cannot afford to lose Reed again for an extended period. Hamstring injuries can be difficult to return from, and there is zero question that returning this week would put the corner under instant pressure.
Reed would not only have to run with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, he'd also need to come up in run support to attempt to tackle Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley. As great as welcoming Reed back to the lineup looks on paper, there are obvious risks that should give the Lions a level of hesitation.
It truly is a close-to-impossible decision with Detroit badly needing this game while also needing to protect Reed from himself. The comments on being ready to go this week are exciting, but shouldn't be taken at face value for an elite athlete who badly wants to contribute and return to the field.
For the Lions, the better move is to hold Reed out of the lineup at least for another week and be willing to battle with the pieces you trust are fully healthy. If there is even a slight chance of reinjury, it simply isn't worth the risk of putting Reed out on the field. The defender is far too important to what Detroit must accomplish in the weeks to come.