The Detroit Lions recently activated defensive lineman DJ Reader off the physically unable to perform list after he passed his physical, and that paved the way for him to return to practice.
While that was huge because he would've had to miss a minimum of four games had he remained on the list through cutdown day, Reader's status for Week 1 remained uncertain.
And that continues to be the case as of Monday, according to head coach Dan Campbell, who noted the team still isn't sure if Reader will be ready. He did say, however, that the goal the entire time has been for Reader to play in Week 2.
"I would love to say that we're targeting that (Week 1)," Campbell said, per Jeremy Reisman of Pride of Detroit. "We're just going to take it as it comes. We'd always said, long term, that we were kind of shooting for (Week 2 vs.) Tampa (Bay).
"Look, our eyes are open, and we're going to pay close attention and see how he does, how he feels, and kind of go from there if it's sooner."
Campbell also noted that Reader returned to practice on Sunday, as did several other players, including running back Jahymr Gibbs, tight end Sam LaPorta, guard Kevin Zeitler, linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, cornerbacks Terrion Arnold, Carlton Davis, and Ennis Rakestraw Jr.
Players Dan Campbell specifically noted were back from injury at walkthrough practice yesterday:
— Jeremy Reisman (@DetroitOnLion) August 26, 2024
- RB Jahmyr Gibbs
- TE Sam LaPorta
- G Kevin Zeitler
- DT DJ Reader
- LB Malcolm Rodriguez
- CB Terrion Arnold
- CB Carlton Davis
- CB Ennis Rakestraw
It would certainly be nice to get Reader back for the season-opener, but the most important thing is just getting him back healthy. One game without the defensive lineman isn't going to ruin Detroit's season.
