DETROIT – Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell spoke about the return of defensive tackle Alim McNeill during his appearance on the Costa and Jansen show on 97.1 The Ticket.
McNeill has been out of the lineup since he tore his ACL in December of 2024 during the team’s Week 15 matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
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Following Campbell’s excitement on Wednesday (Oct. 15), the defensive lineman will be taking the field for the first time after being placed on the reserve/physical unable to perform list.
McNeill has been practicing with the team prior to their Week 7 showdown with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers inside Ford Field on Monday Night Football.
“Listen, barring something happening this week, Alim’s freaking playing, man,” said Campbell.
Campbell highlighted the positive effect McNeill has on the defense.
“Everybody loves Mac man, and they know what kind of teammate he is and what kind of production he can bring to us in the run and pass game,” Campbell said.
Campbell added that McNeill elevates the play of those around him.
“He’s the type of guy who elevates the guys around him. He’ll elevate their level of play or their production just him being out there because he’s going to draw a little bit of attention,” Campbell said.
Campbell acknowledged that it will be McNeill’s first game back, and he might need to shake off some rust.
“He’ll have to check off a couple of cobwebs, but after what I’ve seen the last two weeks, it won’t take long,” Campbell said.
“It’s good to have him back, man. He’s certainly one of the pieces, a pivotal piece to what we do here, and he’s going to help us,” Campbell said.
When asked if McNeill would be eased in or play full time, Campbell said, “We’ll take it as it comes. He’s gotten more reps over the last two weeks. He’s going to get more reps in practice this week, too.”