The Detroit Lions have a 5-2 record and are a half-game behind the Green Bay Packers for first place in the NFC North heading into their bye. But as Lions fans know, the one thing that could stop their quest for a third straight division title and more is injuries.
The Lions watched a 15-2 season go down the drain thanks to a slew of injuries a year ago. Maintaining their health will be an important part of their quest for a championship this season. Zach Cunningham was one of the latest players to help the Lions return to full health as he played in Monday night’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but it didn’t last long as he aggravated his hamstring injury.
While the Lions were heading into their bye week, it wasn’t going to be enough time for him to return. With that in mind, Cunningham was placed on injured reserve one week after his return, and it could open the door for some changes in the linebacker room.
Zach Cunningham’s Injury Further Tests Lions’ Linebacker Depth
The Lions' linebackers have been a shallow group all season. According to Pro Football Focus, Alex Anzalone, Derrick Barnes, and Jack Campbell have combined to play 98% of the snaps this season. Cunningham, who was signed for a depth role, had been limited to 14 defensive snaps and 79 total snaps as he’s battled his injury.
This has been an unfortunate development for Detroit, which was trying to build the depth it didn’t have one year ago. Cunningham was a former starting linebacker for the Houston Texans, leading the league with 164 total tackles and 106 solo tackles during the 2020 season. However, he has been in a reserve role ever since, largely due to a series of injuries sustained with the Tennessee Titans, Philadelphia Eagles, and Denver Broncos.
While losing Cunningham is a bit of a blow, it may open the door for him to get passed on the depth chart. Malcolm Rodriguez is getting closer to returning from a torn ACL and will be expected to provide depth and value on special teams. Cunningham’s setback could mean he needs additional time to return to the field.
With Wednesday’s news, Cunningham will be out until at least the Thanksgiving matchup with the Green Bay Packers. If he’s not able to return soon thereafter, it could challenge the Lions’ depth even as they have pieces returning soon.