The Detroit Lions began the season banged up along the defensive line. Defensive tackles Levi Onwuzurike and Alim McNeill are both sidelined with significant injuries. Onwuzurike was ruled out at the start of training camp with a surprise torn ACL, while McNeill is also recovering from the torn ACL he sustained last season.
That said, the 25-year-old recently provided an update on his current status. According to Justin Rodgers of the Detroit Football Network, McNeill said he feels 93-94% recovered from the injury thanks to his relentless offseason rehab. This is great news for the Lions' defensive front.
Lions DT Alim McNeill on Track to Return Soon
While McNeill's comments are good to hear, they shouldn't surprise any Lions fans. In August, general manager Brad Holmes gave a positive update on the young defensive tackle's health. Holmes said, "Having Alim on his way back, which I think that, you know, has the potential to be a little bit earlier than expected... Because he’s doing great right now."
Typically, it takes anywhere from 9 to 12 months to recover from an ACL tear. Though most NFL players return closer to the 9-10 month range. However, since McNeill is a lineman, many expected his recovery time to be longer.
That said, before the season started, McNeill was placed on the reserve/ Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. Being placed on this list means the earliest he can return to practice is leading into their Week 5 game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Even so, being placed on the PUP list was a much better sign than if Detroit had placed him on injured reserve.
During McNeill's absence, the Lions have had to rely on rookie Tyleik Williams. Despite the fact that he has yet to record a sack, Williams has still impacted the game. Last Sunday against the Chicago Bears, the rookie recorded two passes defensed. Even if that doesn't pop off the page, it does show he has a nose for the football.
Once McNeill returns, the interior of the Lions’ defensive line will be a real problem. On third downs, pairing McNeill’s ability to generate pressure with Williams’ knack for batting down passes creates a dangerous combination. And as Williams develops a more consistent pass rush, the duo’s impact will only grow.