Lions Veteran Suddenly a Clear Cut Candidate Before Playoffs

Lions CB Emmanuel Moseley has had a long road back from injuries and appeared in Sunday's victory over the Bears. He's been limited to just two games this season and while head coach Dan Campbell had positive things to say, Moseley is suddenly a cut candidate ahead of the playoffs.

Detroit has several key players set to come off Injured Reserve in the coming weeks, meaning players on the roster will need to be waived to clear space. Guys like Alex Anzalone and possibly even David Montgomery could return soon, and Moseley's status as primarily a special teamer may leave him on the outside looking in.

The seventh-year player out of Tennessee likely wouldn't be claimed off waivers, making him a logical choice to part ways with once those injured Lions are ready to take the field again.

Lions CB Emmanuel Moseley Suddenly a Cut Candidate Before Postseason

It certainly sounds like Campbell and the Lions would prefer to keep Moseley, who was an effective starter for the 49ers before tearing his ACL. That said, difficult decisions will have to be made in order to prioritize other players, and Moseley has only managed to appear in three games during his two seasons with Detroit.

If he can continue to impress the coaching staff though, Moseley still has a chance to remain on the playoff roster.

"This is the best week he’s had since he’s come back from the injury," Campbell told reporters on Friday. "I just think he looks so much more comfortable, he’s moving around well, and it’s been really two great days for him."

It's been a long road to recovery for Moseley, who tore his left ACL with San Francisco in 2022 before tearing his right one after just two snaps in 2023. He had 11 pass breakups in 11 games with the 49ers in 2023, surrendering just a 65.8 passer rating when targeted in coverage. Unfortunately, he may not reach that ceiling again given the repeated ailments.

Moseley played 59% of special teams snaps during the two games he's played this year but hasn't been on the field for a defensive one yet. Special teams players are important but more of a luxury than a necessity, especially when valuable starters like Anzalone are waiting to return.

There's still time for Moseley to prove to the coaches that he belongs on the roster. Campbell's comments are certainly positive, so Moseley will be a name to watch throughout practice over the next two weeks. If he stays on this track, he might force the Lions to keep him around for the stretch run.

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