The Detroit Lions dealt with a massive number of injuries during the 2024 season, but still managed to find ways to win. While the team has mostly been healthy in 2025, there are still some big injuries that have popped up.
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One such injury is a shoulder ailment that current Pro Bowl offensive tackle Taylor Decker is dealing with. Decker appeared on the injury report on Wednesday with a shoulder issue and was hit with three DNP (Did Not Participate) statuses.
Despite three DNPs, there was a strong hope that Decker would be ready to go against the Cincinnati Bengals. That is no longer the case, and he has been downgraded hours before the matchup.
Decker received shoulder surgery due to a torn labrum that had been bothering him since 2017, but this new shoulder pain apparently is not related. This new issue has recently popped up, making it difficult for the Pro Bowl tackle to practice.
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The hope for the Lions is that the injury Decker has is something that can be dealt with by allowing him to rest for a week. Unfortunately, the team has a big matchup with the Bengals.
Decker has been solid for the Lions in 2025, only giving up one sack and committing one penalty through the first four games of the season. He is currently ranked 41st among 110 qualified tackles, according to PFF.
Decker is also an instrumental piece in protecting quarterback Jared Goff, so losing him for the Bengals showdown will be tough to deal with. With the Pro Bowler more than likely out for Week 5, Giovanni Manu will likely step in as the starting left tackle.
Detroit is currently 3-1 on the season, picking up three consecutive wins against the Chicago Bears, Baltimore Ravens, and Cleveland Browns. A win against the Bengals will place the team at 4-1 heading into a very important Week 6 showdown with the surging Kansas City Chiefs.
Decker needs time to heal, and though he will be unlikely to play against the Bengals, he will be needed against the tough Chiefs front in Week 6.
For more on the Lions, head to Newsweek Sports.
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