MICHAEL BROCKERS

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have inched a little closer toward full health, with fullback Jason Cabinda returning to practice on Thursday afternoon. Cabinda has been battling a knee injury after missing the first eight games of the season because of an ankle injury. With that, the only players sidelined on Thursday were center Frank Ragnow, defensive tackle Michael Brockers and guard Kayode Awosika. Detroit is healthier than it has been all season heading into Sunday’s must-win finale against the Green Bay Packers. As for Green Bay, quarterback Aaron Rodgers did not practice on Wednesday because of right thumb/knee injuries, although there seems to be no question about his availability for Sunday.

DETROIT -- The Lions are going to need a new kick returner for their must-win game on Sunday against the Chicago Bears. Justin Jackson has become a late scratch because of a hip injury that popped up at practice on Friday. Craig Reynolds has been activated for the first time since Week 9 and will take Jackson’s place as RB3 behind Jamaal Williams and D’Andre Swift. The bigger mystery is who will take Jackson’s place as the kick returner. Swift, receiver/punt returner Kalif Raymond and receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown are the most logical candidates.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- One of the hottest teams in the league has arrived for what’s expected to be the coldest game in Carolina history. Center Frank Ragnow (toe) and linebacker Derrick Barnes (knee) have both been cleared to play on Christmas Eve against the Carolina Panthers. Barnes hasn’t played in almost a month because of a knee injury, while Ragnow got in just one day of practice this week because of a toe injury that has nagged him all season. Now he’s going to play in the freezing cold in Carolina too, where the windchill remained below zero as players began warming up at Bank of America Stadium. Temperatures were expected to be around 25 or 26 degrees at kickoff, which would be the coldest home game in Panthers history.

That includes star rookie pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson, who missed practice on Thursday, and running back/kick returner Justin Jackson, who was downgraded to questionable over the weekend. Defensive lineman Michael Brockers is the only player missing the game due to illness, and he was benched weeks ago anyway. The rest of the inactives: Guard Kayode Awosika (ankle), linebacker Derrick Barnes (knee), running back Craig Reynolds (knee), quarterback Josh Dobbs, guard Ross Pierschbascher and defensive lineman Austin Bryant. The same cannot be said of the New York Jets, who have scratched star defensive tackle Quinnen Williams because of a calf injury. New York is also playing without top quarterback Mike White, who was ruled out on Friday because of a rib injury.

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- The Detroit Lions still haven’t shaken off the bug that has been bouncing around the locker room, now leaving defensive lineman Michael Brockers back home because of illness. He didn’t make the team flight to New York and has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Jets. That won’t impact the Lions’ chances -- Brockers hasn’t played in weeks and is likely in his final days in Detroit -- although he’s far from the only ailing these days. Running back Justin Jackson has been added to the injury report because of an illness and is questionable to play against the Jets, along with pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson and cornerback Mike Hughes. Detroit has continued to roll despite the bug, winning five of its last six games.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have listed prized rookie defensive end Aidan Hutchinson (illness) as questionable to play against the New York Jets in Week 15. Hutchinson, who leads all rookies with seven sacks and 39 pressures, was back at practice to end the week. He’s missed the last three games with an ankle injury. Related: Aidan Hutchinson returns to Detroit Lions practice after bout with illnessRelated: Detroit Lions’ postseason dreams boosted by Seahawks loss: ‘That was nice’The Lions ruled offensive guard Kayode Awosika (ankle) and linebacker Derrick Barnes (knee) out for Sunday’s game in New Jersey. Veteran defensive lineman Michael Brockers, who hasn’t played since Week 4, is doubtful with an ankle injury.

ALLEN PARK -- Playoff fever isn’t the only bug going around the Detroit Lions’ locker room. Star rookie pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson, cornerback Mike Hughes and defensive lineman Michael Brockers all missed practice on Thursday because of illness. That comes just one week after cornerback Jeff Okudah, receiver Kalif Raymond and backup quarterback Nate Sudfeld all missed multiple days of practice due to illness. Okudah played just 27 of the team’s 65 defensive snaps overall. Hutchinson also leads all rookie defensive linemen in snaps.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions canceled practice on Wednesday. A day later, a slew of guys were still not practicing as preparations heated up for Sunday’s game against the New York Jets, most notably Aidan Hutchinson. 2 overall pick has played fabulously this season, racking up seven sacks -- more than any other rookie in the league -- and winning NFL defensive rookie of the month for November. He’s on the shortlist for defensive rookie of the year heading into a matchup against Sauce Gardner, another favorite for the award. Now just three days before that game -- essentially a must-win game for Detroit’s playoff hopes -- Hutchinson is sidelined for an unknown reason.

These are good days for the Detroit Lions’ long-lost pass rush -- and now they’re getting back their two-time sack leader too. Romeo Okwara has officially been cleared to suit up for the showdown against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday at Ford Field. They believed in Okwara, and wanted to build Detroit’s pass rush around him for the long term. Detroit is getting healthy for that push too, although did lose starting slot cornerback Will Harris to a mid-week hip injury. Mike Hughes is expected to replace Harris in the slot, while Jeff Okudah is active on the outside as expected.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions were one of eight teams to place a waiver claim on former Los Angeles Chargers defensive lineman Jerry Tillery, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports. Veteran Michael Brockers has been a healthy scratch since Week 5, and Levi Onwuzurike is out for the season on the interior defensive line. Alim McNeill has moved around more, while Isaiah Buggs has played 50-plus snaps from the defensive tackle spot for five straight games. The Lions also have used John Cominsky, Josh Paschal and Aidan Hutchinson inside, moving those multi-faceted defenders around. The former Notre Dame standout reportedly wasn’t a fit for the Chargers moving forward but will stick inside the AFC West.

The Detroit Lions have ruled out rookie linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez for their game on Sunday against the Chicago Bears. Rodriguez was listed as questionable to play because of an elbow injury he suffered early in last week’s win against Green Bay. Having your starting inside linebacker would be helpful in a matchup like this. The good news is Derrick Barnes, who is expected to replace Rodriguez in the starting lineup, is coming off the best game of his career. It was good to see him out there running around.”Now it seems Barnes will get to run around even more at Soldier Field.

DETROIT -- D’Andre Swift will play against Green Bay. Swift is the Lions’ most electric player when healthy, but he hasn’t been healthy since the opening week of the season. He was on a pitch count in that game, and after being limited all week in practice, he might be on another. Josh Reynolds has been ruled out against the Packers because of a back injury that popped up during the practice week. Brockers has been a healthy scratch each of the last three weeks, a sign the 31-year-old is in his final weeks in Detroit.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions enter Tuesday afternoon’s trade deadline losers of five straight games, sitting at 1-6 and well out of contention in the NFC playoff picture. Mine is to make the most of what we got here, which is plenty to compete with, I believe.”“Yeah, I don’t know,” Campbell said. “I know (general manager) Brad (Holmes) is looking into anything and everything on both sides. T.J. Hockenson’s name has been popular in the trade deadline rumor mill. Running back Jamaal Williams, offensive lineman Evan Brown, defensive end John Cominsky, linebackers Alex Anzalone and cornerback Amani Oruwariye, among others, are unrestricted free agents after this season.

DETROIT -- For the first time in more than a month, the Detroit Lions will have D’Andre Swift at their disposal. And that’s very good news for a team that still hasn’t won since their dynamic running back went down with ankle and shoulder injuries in a Week 3 game against Minnesota. St. Brown will return against the Dolphins too, after missing most of last week’s game because of concussion-like symptoms (although he passed all concussion tests) and being severely limited or out entirely before that because of a high ankle sprain. Perhaps it’s no wonder the offense has sputtered, nor that Detroit has lost an NFL-worst four games in a row. Defensive lineman Michael Brockers has been benched for a second straight week as the Lions turn to the more effective John Cominksy and Josh Paschal on the interior of the defensive front.

PregameLions inactives: DL Michael Brockers, S DeShon Elliott, DE Charles Harris, CB Mike Hughes, CB Chase Lucas, S Ifeatu Melifonwu, OL Matt NelsonDolphins inactives: RB Myles Gaskin, WR Erik Ezukanma, QB Skylar Thompson, S Eric Rowe, WR River Cracraft--DETROIT -- The Detroit Lions (1-5) look to snap their four-game losing streak while trying for the team’s first touchdown since before the bye against the Miami Dolphins (4-3) in Week 8 action from Ford Field. This post will update with drive summaries, analysis, injury updates, photos, pregame updates and more. Hit refresh to keep up and follow MLive’s Detroit Lions reporters on Twitter -- @BenjaminSRaven and @kmeinke. Also, head over to MLive’s Facebook account after the game for an in-depth breakdown. Related headlines and team stats:Detroit Lions vs. Miami Dolphins: 3 burning questions ahead of Week 8How to watch Lions vs. Dolphins: Live stream, TV channel, kickoff timeLions sign K Michael Badgley to 53-man roster, elevate 2 receivers from practice squad2022 TEAM STATSDVOA offensive ranking: Lions 15th | Dolphins 6thDVOA defensive ranking: Lions 31st | Dolphins 20thNet yards gained per passing attempt: Lions 6.7 (9th) | Dolphins 7.3 (3rd)Rushing yards per attempt: Lions 5.3 (4th) | Dolphins 3.9 (25th)Points per game: Lions 24.3 (9th) | Dolphins 21 (19th)Points allowed per game: Lions 32.3 (32nd) | Dolphins 23.6 (23rd)Net yards allowed per passing attempt: Lions 7.3 (32nd) | Dolphins 6.8 (24th)Rushing yards allowed per attempt: Lions 5.3 (30th) | Dolphins 4.2 (11th)Takeaways: Lions 5 | Dolphins 7

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have waived undrafted rookie defensive tackle Demetrius Taylor. He didn’t appear in the first game after the bye, with second-round rookie Josh Paschal impressing during his league debut. Related: Lions captain Michael Brockers faces uncertain future after benchingRelated: The Lions were the only team to call Demetrius Taylor after the draft. The Lions are going through some changes in the defensive trenches, and not only with those two returning pieces. Somewhat, but also just some new things that we’re doing, because we have new players, and putting those guys in position to be successful, like with Paschal,” Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn said.

Michael Brockers was voted a defensive captain after just one season in Detroit, a testament to the outstanding leadership he has brought to the franchise. But there’s no question he’s also been a disappointment on the field, and now his future is clouded by uncertainty. Brockers was an avid interior pass rusher during his years with the Los Angeles Rams, something the Lions had lacked for years. But Brockers’ performance fell off immediately upon his arrival in Detroit, hitting just one quarterback in 16 starts last season. Brockers has a $14 million cap hit for next season, and Detroit could save $10 million by moving on.

He threw two interceptions and lost two fumbles in the loss to the Cowboys, all in the second half. He nearly lost another earlier in the second half. Raymond was also a lead blocker on Brock Wright’s near touchdown catch-and-run in the second half, highlighting his fearlessness. The toned-down offensive attack and the improved defensive front had the Lions leading this game at halftime. And then the second half happened, with the offense forgetting how to protect the football.

And they have their defense -- yes, their defense -- to thank for their 6-3 halftime lead here at AT@T Stadium. What a finish to a great half from a defense that absolutely needed it. Don’t overlook the changes up front either, where the Lions sat down struggling captain Michael Brockers in favor of younger players like John Cominksy and Josh Paschal. And in Cominsky’s return to the field, Hutchinson immediately delivered a third-down sack on his first drive of the game. It’ll be interesting to see how the second half plays out, now that Dallas better understands what Detroit is trying to do with Paschal in that new-look front.

ARLINGTON, Texas -- Another week, yet another benching for the Detroit Lions defense. Michael Brockers is a healthy inactive for Sunday’s game against the Dallas Cowboys, becoming the third veteran to lose his starting job in the last two games. Cornerback Amani Oruwariye was also inactive for the loss in New England, while safety DeShon Elliott came off the bench in that game. But some things you just got to kind of let heal if you don’t want to make it worse.”In the end, Swift and the Lions are playing it safe. That’s a big loss for a Lions offense whose projected top outside receivers -- DJ Chark and Jameson Williams -- are both on injured lists.

PregameLook out for CB Jerry Jacobs (season debut) and second-round DL Josh Paschal (NFL debut) today. This post will update with drive summaries, analysis, injury updates, photos, pregame updates and more. Hit refresh to keep up and follow MLive’s Detroit Lions reporters on Twitter -- @BenjaminSRaven and @kmeinke. Also, head over to MLive’s Facebook account after the game for an in-depth breakdown. 2022 TEAM STATSDVOA offensive ranking: Lions 9th | Cowboys 17thDVOA defensive ranking: Lions 32nd | Cowboys 6thNet yards gained per passing attempt: Lions 6.7 (8th) | Cowboys 5.6 (25th)Rushing yards per attempt: Lions 5.4 (2nd) | Cowboys 4.3 (19th)Points per game: Lions 28 (3rd) | Cowboys 18.3 (23rd)Points allowed per game: Lions 34 (32nd) | Cowboys 16.3 (3rd)Net yards allowed per passing attempt: Lions 7.4 (31st) | Cowboys 4.7 (3rd)Rushing yards allowed per attempt: Lions 5.5 (30th) | Cowboys 4.4 (17th)Takeaways: Lions 4 | Cowboys 7

The Detroit Lions have talked about finding new ways to use interior defender Alim McNeill, especially after adding beef to the rotation in Isaiah Buggs and Benito Jones. McNeill saw an increase in snaps during Detroit’s 28-24 loss to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3. Aidan Hutchinson’s snaps dipped while dealing with his thigh/quad injury, with the prized rookie still seeing 79% of the defensive work. Jones played 13 snaps while Buggs handled much of the work inside with McNeill moving around. The Lions averaged 4 yards per carry and didn’t allow a sack, while Jared Goff ate only two hits.

ALLEN PARK -- Detroit Lions cornerback Amani Oruwariye left practice during warmups on Thursday, dealing yet another potential setback to a team that continues to be without star running back D’Andre Swift (ankle) and Pro Bowl offensive linemen Jonah Jackson (finger) and Frank Ragnow (foot/groin). Left tackle Taylor Decker (calf) returned to practice after sitting out Wednesday’s session with a calf issue, but practice otherwise painted another bleak picture heading into Sunday’s game against the Washington Commanders. The only other guard on the roster is Kayode Awosika, who was signed off the Eagles’ practice squad this week. Dan Skipper, an offensive tackle on Detroit’s practice squad, could be another emergency option. At tight end, Logan Thomas has blossomed into one of the league’s most productive pass-catchers at that position since leaving Detroit.

ALLEN PARK -- Detroit Lions defensive lineman Michael Brockers has agreed to a simple restructure of his contract, turning $4 million of his $7 million salary into a bonus. That clears $2 million off the cap for this season, while pushing another $2 million onto the books for 2023. Detroit gave up a 2023 seventh-round pick for Brockers, then immediately gave the veteran a new three-year, $24 million contract. That also pushed more money into this season and especially 2023, and the latest maneuver will tip even more money into 2023. Brockers’ cap hit next season is now $14 million, while carrying about $4 million in dead money.

ALLEN PARK -- Josh Woods opened training camp on the Detroit Lions’ roster bubble. Quarterback Jared Goff, center Frank Ragnow, linebacker Alex Anzalone, defensive lineman Michael Brockers and safety Tracy Walker were the others. “I love where he’s taken his leadership. You can tell he’s taken it serious, too. A year later, Woods won another roster spot by making himself indispensable on special teams.

Today: Defensive line. But so far, so very good on the Hutchinson pick. The interior of the defensive line might be even more crowded when Detroit opens camp on Wednesday. Alim McNeill, third-round pick from last season, has been even better than the Lions expected him to be. Roster projection: DE Aidan Hutchinson, DE Josh Paschal, DL Jashon Cornell, DE John Cominsky, EDGE Romeo Okwara, EDGE Julian Okwara, DT Alim McNeill, DL Michael Brockers, DL Levi Onwuzurike

The Detroit Lions will reportedly host defensive lineman Arden Key on a free-agent visit to open the week per the NFL Network. Key, 25, had a breakout season in a rotational role with the San Francisco 49ers last year. Key played all over San Francisco’s defensive line. “Hearing there’s a few teams in the mix for him but he starts with a meeting with Detroit,” Mike Garafolo reports. The Lions also have the athletic and often-injured Julian Okwara and Austin Bryant in the mix after promising showings down the stretch.

This is the final of a seven-part series previewing the Detroit Lions’ positional needs heading into free agency. After a breakout season on a one-year deal in Detroit, Charles Harris is a free agent. And while those two should remain the top two options at Pick 2 no matter what happens in free agency. Von Miller, Chandler Jones, Jadeveon Clowney, Randy Gregory, Hasson Reddick and Emmanuel Ogbah highlight a deep edge rusher market. Jones started 17 games last season while posting 56 tackles, 10 for loss, two sacks and two forced fumbles.

That man could have brought anyone as his plus-one to the team’s Super Bowl party that night. His choice: Detroit Lions defensive lineman Michael Brockers. He played 55 snaps for the Rams in Super Bowl LIII, which ranked behind only Dante Fowler, Aaron Donald and Ndamukong Suh on that star-studded front. Brockers and Donald spent seven seasons anchoring that line together, and became close off the field over the years. “It was awesome (playing with Donald),” Brockers said back in training camp.

Previous entries: Quarterbacks | Running backs | Wide receivers | Tight ends | Offensive lineDEFENSIVE LINE/EDGE DEFENDERSStarters: EDGE Trey Flowers, EDGE Romeo Okwara, DL Nick Williams, DL Michael Brockers, NT Alim McNeillBackups: EDGE Charles Harris, EDGE Julian Okwara, EDGE Austin Bryant, EDGE Rashod Berry, EDGE Jessie Lemonier, DL Levi Onwuzurike, DL Jashon Cornell, NT John Penisini, DL Bruce HectorKey stats: Charles Harris led the team with 7.5 sacks and 52 pressures. The third-round rookie even got in the mix getting after the quarterback, flashing that size-athleticism combo that had many excited. It allowed Charles Harris to come in and enjoy a career-best campaign while putting the pass rush on his back. Harris had only 6.5 sacks and 81 pressures through his first four years in the league. The former first-round pick exploded for 7.5 sacks and 52 pressures through only seven starts after signing a one-year deal.

While the interior of the defensive line isn’t at the top of the team’s needs, a little competition never hurt anyone. Peevy had 43 tackles, seven tackles for loss, two sacks and one interception for the Aggies last year. Logan Hall, DL, HoustonLogan Hall is worth a closer look based on what he could offer regarding the interior pass rush. Hall burst on the scene this season, delivering 13 tackles for loss and six sacks in 12 games. ESPN ranks him 10th among defensive tackles.

Dan Campbell leaned into a lectern and gripped it with both hands, looking and sounding slightly somber.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions announced they’re getting back offensive tackle Matt Nelson and wide receiver Trinity Benson from COVID infections. That’s four more starters lost to infections heading into Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks, wreaking havoc on a roster that was already thinned by injury. That’s especially true at tight end, where guys like Josh Hill (retirement), Charlie Taumoepeau (car accident) and Hunter Bryant (non-football injury) never even made it into the season. Then top blocking tight end Darren Fells asked for his release during the winless start, before Pro Bowler T.J. Hockenson was lost to injury. Now the Lions have more issues to deal with in their trenches, as Brockers and Vaitai both land on the COVID list.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions will be without running back D’Andre Swift for the third straight week due to his shoulder injury. Edge defender Julian Okwara (ankle) will join Swift on the sideline, missing his second straight game. Lions coach Dan Campbell said it’s unlikely they’ll get anyone back from that list despite the league making changes to protocols. Without Swift and Williams in the backfield, it should be another weekend of Craig Reynolds, Godwin Igwebuike and Jermar Jefferson. Shane Zylstra has been elevated from the practice squad, with the tight end catching two of six targets for 18 yards last week.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have placed running back Jamaal Williams and safety Tracy Walker on the COVID reserve list. They also officially ruled out running back D’Andre Swift (shoulder) and listed tight end T.J. Hockenson (hand) as doubtful. Williams handled the bulk of the work with Swift missing the team’s game last week, running 17 times for 71 yards in the win. “It’s, we kind have talked about this, it’s the versatility,” Lions tight end coach Ben Johnson said of Cabinda. For a big tight end, er fullback, you just don’t see much of that.

The Detroit Lions received some much-needed reinforcements in the returning Taylor Decker, not to mention a fully-unleashed Da’Shawn Hand in their 16-16 tie in Pittsburgh in Week 10. Hand drew 68 defensive snaps in his second game back from injured reserve. Kalif Raymond (47), Amon-Ra St. Brown (43), KhaDarel Hodge (four) and Geronimo Allison (two) were also in the mix. St. Brown led the group with four catches for 61 yards. PFF reports St. Brown had 33 snaps in the slot and nine out wide, a slight shift.

Matthew Stafford passed for 334 yards and three touchdowns against his former team, and Jalen Ramsey made an end zone interception on his 27th birthday with five minutes left in the Los Angeles Rams’ 28-19 victory over Jared Goff and the winless Detroit Lions.

Jared Goff was the Rams' first draft pick after their return to Los Angeles a half-decade ago — the new quarterback for the franchise's new era.

ALLEN PARK -- Jared Goff and Matthew Stafford are sure to garner their fair share of headlines ahead of the quarterback-swap showdown between the Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Rams this weekend. The Lions sent a 2023 seventh-round pick to the Rams for Brockers in the cap-saving move in LA. Despite this, Brockers said this weekend’s game doesn’t carry much added value, even considering the history between the two sides. The Rams know that and I plan on doing that this coming Sunday. Goff’s tenure is off to a rough start in Detroit, with the Lions 0-6, and his play coming under fire.

ALLEN PARK -- With Jamie Collins still on the trade block, the Detroit Lions are keeping the veteran linebacker in street clothes for Sunday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens. The Lions officially ruled out Collins on Friday afternoon, while Trey Flowers (shoulder/knee), Michael Brockers (shoulder), Romeo Okwara (shoulder), Julian Okwara (neck), Kalif Raymond (thigh), D’Andre Swift (groin) and Kevin Strong (brain/thigh) were all listed as questionable. The club has been transparent about its intention to trade Collins, who struggled with his performance and effort in back-to-back losses to open the season. Flowers didn’t practice all week while dealing with knee and shoulder issues, while Okwara is battling more shoulder pain. Brockers is officially questionable with a shoulder injury of his own, but he’s already played twice through the injury and practiced all week.

The Detroit Lions’ new coach and quarterback are off to a start that resembles the team’s previous regimes.

Parker (shoulder) and defensive linemen Michael Brockers (shoulder) and Nick Williams (elbow) all missed practice time on Wednesday as preparations began for the opener on Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. He is expected to play on Sunday against San Francisco, although could be on a pitch count if his conditioning isn’t up after all that lost time. “I didn’t want to miss training camp, it was unfortunate,” Brockers said recently. On the offensive side, Decker is still expected to start against San Francisco despite a finger injury. Swift missed most of training camp with a nagging groin injury that left the coaching staff concerned about his availability for Week 1.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions expect running back D’Andre Swift and defensive tackle Michael Brockers to be ready for their season opener on Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. But head coach Dan Campbell said during an appearance on 97.1 The Ticket on Tuesday morning that he expects Swift to play. Swift, the former second-round pick, also missed most of his rookie training camp last year with a hip injury. Detroit traded for the veteran Rams defensive tackle over the winter and expected him to lead a very new-look -- and young -- defensive rotation. The Lions spent two early picks on Alim McNeill and Levi Onwuzurike, both of whom are expected to play a lot early.

Now, the pair of Detroit Lions rookie defensive linemen have the first-year general manager feeling good about the team’s standing in the trenches. McNeill has continued to impress coaches, garnering praise for being an even better athlete than expected coming out of the draft. Brockers said he expects to be ready for Week 1 after taking his time to work back from an undisclosed injury. We feel good about the direction that he’s headed, headed into Week 1,” Holmes said. Look, the development of the rushers at outside linebacker, (Lions outside linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard) Shep’s done a heck of a job,” Holmes said.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have elected to carry six receivers, just two tight ends and a whole slew of young defensive backs in the secondary. Yes, that means Tom Kennedy made the team at receiver, despite the Lions’ trade for Trinity Benson earlier in the day. Other bubble players who made the team include DT Kevin Strong, LB Anthony Pittman, CB Bobby Price and CB Jerry Jacobs. Parker, CB Jerry Jacobs, S/CB Bobby Price, S Tracy Walker, S Will Harris, S Dean Marlowe, S C.J. MooreOut: CB Mike Ford, CB Corn Elder, CB Nickell Robey-Coleman, S Jalen Elliott, S Alijah HolderSpecialists (2)In: P Jack Fox, LS Scott DalyOut: K Zane Gonzalez, K Randy Bullock

ALLEN PARK -- Michael Brockers has spent training camp and the preseason getting up to speed. While the veteran Detroit Lions defensive lineman isn’t 100% yet, he expects to be ready for the opener against the San Francisco 49ers. Lions coach Dan Campbell has said the team also expects Brockers to play in Week 1, despite his improvement from an undisclosed injury happening at a “snail’s pace.”“Certainly, that’s the hope. I think we feel like he’ll be ready Week 1. He’s getting over some minor little things, but for the most part, a guy who is coming along really well, taking the coaching and rolling with it.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions’ starting offense net 59 yards on 21 plays and scored three points in the loss against Buffalo in the preseason opener. And that was enough for the Lions to consider shutting down several notable players until the regular season, including starting quarterback Jared Goff, star tight end T.J. Hockenson and top running back D’Andre Swift. “I’ll tell you this -- it’s been in my head for probably about a week -- I’m starting to think about now maybe sitting a few of these guys, a select few veterans, is kind of what I’m thinking. The injury is minor, but Hockenson might not play in the preseason anyway -- not that he needs too anyway. “Brockers is getting better, and we’ll see him play hopefully next week and work him back in during practice,” Campbell said.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions are back to 90 players on their training camp roster, signing free-agent nose tackle Miles Brown. Brown, 23, appeared in nine games with the Arizona Cardinals in 2019, notching nine tackles and one tackle for loss. Second-year defensive tackle John Penisini has been working his way back from offseason shoulder surgery, so Brown adds another capable body to the trenches. Michael Brockers hasn’t done much in recent days either, with Lions coach Dan Campbell saying the team is trying to be smart with the 10-year veteran. Injury updates on D’Andre Swift, Tyrell Crosby, Michael Brockers, Julian Okwara as Lions downshift to walk-throughVeteran DL Michael Brockers stepping into organic lead by example role for Detroit LionsDay 6 notes and observations: Blood flows, punches fly at Lions’ first padded practice

“I try to just come in and be one of the guys,” Brockers said after the first session of training camp. “He’s doing it the right way. A lot of guys coming into that position and they get that power and it overwhelms them. He’s coming in, it’s all about the team, like I said earlier and in some of my other interviews. A lot of players, a lot of young players are buying in because he came in with the right attitude.

But enjoy this, enjoy everything about it, enjoy the laughter.”It’s a new day in Detroit, indeed. Until then, there’s not much to say about that highly anticipated offensive line -- other than to note the majesty of Taylor Decker’s, uh, mullet? Oh my God.”Detroit Lions tackle Taylor Decker (68) warms up during their training camp practice at their team headquarters in Allen Park, on Wednesday, July 28, 2021. (Mike Mulholland | MLive.com)Mike Mulholland | MLive.comThe alignment of the offensive line went as expected, with Decker, Jonah Jackson, Ragnow, Halapoulivaati Vaitai and rookie Penei Sewell going left to right. -- One last note on the offensive line, as the Lions continue to tinker with ways to get Logan Stenberg into the fold.

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have claimed defensive tackle Bruce Hector off waivers via the Tennessee Titans per the NFL Network. The pair of rookie defensive tackles are expected to play a vital role in finding an interior pass rush in Detroit. Williams didn’t do much of note in his debut season in Detroit, taking an offseason pay cut to stick around. Penisini started the final 12 games of his rookie season due to those injuries and is very much in the mix to see meaningful reps this season. Detroit Lions training camp preview: Pair of rookies expected to play vital role on defensive lineRelated: Lions place DL Brian Price on reserve/retired listRelated: Detroit Lions optimistic they have something special in the oft-injured DL Da’Shawn Hand

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have placed defensive lineman Brian Price on the reserve/retired list, leaving two open spots on their 90-man roster ahead of training camp. The Lions open training camp tomorrow, with rookies and players already reporting to the team’s practice facility in Allen Park. He had 20 tackles in 24 career games since entering the league as an undrafted free agent in 2016. Detroit drafted two defensive tackles in April’s draft and made an offseason trade for veteran Michael Brockers. Detroit Lions training camp preview: Defensive lineRelated: Detroit Lions move oft-injured Austin Bryant to PUP, another to COVID list

(AP Photo/Tim Ireland, File)The NFL is planning to expand its international presence with more games abroad in 2022 if the 17-game regular-season schedule is approved. Of course, beyond those four international games, other clubs could volunteer to play home games abroad, as Jacksonville has done except in the pandemic-impacted 2020 season. Thus far, the NFL has played 38 international regular-season games: 28 in London, six in Toronto, and four in Mexico City. In 2007, the league began yearly games in London, increasing to two matches in 2013, three in 2014 and four in 2017. That indicates to the league a hunger remains for its games being staged abroad.

Perriman's father, Bret, was a standout receiver for the Lions in the 1990s. Defensive end Charles Harris agreed to terms with Detroit, according to a person familiar with the situation. AdLast week, the Lions signed veteran receiver Tyrell Williams after he was released by the Las Vegas Raiders. Perriman had 30 receptions for 505 yards and three touchdowns with the New York Jets last season, his fifth in the NFL. AdThe Lions re-signed defensive end Romeo Okwara to a $39 million, three-year contract.

FILE - San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle Trent Williams (71) looks on prior to an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, in Glendale, Ariz., in this Saturday, Dec. 26, 2020, file photo. (AP Photo/Jennifer Stewart, File)As the NFL opened its business year Wednesday, veterans Trent Williams, A.J. The Seahawks addressed another need, agreeing to terms with tight end Gerald Everett on a one-year deal. Ad— Kansas City agreed to a $5 million contract for next season with three-time Pro Bowl guard Kyle Long, who will come out of retirement. — New England brought back center Ted Karras on a one-year, $4 million contract.

Los Angeles Rams defensive end Michael Brockers (90) celebrates after sacking New England Patriots quarterback Cam Newton during the second half of an NFL football game Thursday, Dec. 10, 2020, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis )LOS ANGELES – A person familiar with the decision tells The Associated Press that the Los Angeles Rams are finalizing a trade sending veteran defensive tackle Michael Brockers to the Detroit Lions. Brockers has been a stalwart on the Rams' defensive line for the past nine seasons after they chose him with general manager Les Snead's first draft pick in St. Louis in 2012. Brockers teamed up with All-Pro Aaron Donald in 2015 and built a formidable tandem on the Rams' defensive line, and they were joined last year by Sebastian Joseph-Day in a breakout season. With the departure of long snapper Jake McQuaide to the Dallas Cowboys this week, Brockers and punter Johnny Hekker were the Rams' longest-tenured players. With running back Malcolm Brown's impending departure for Miami, Hekker, Donald and right tackle Rob Havenstein will be the only remaining St. Louis Rams on Los Angeles' roster.

Without Donald in peak form, the NFL’s top defense simply couldn’t slow down the league’s highest-scoring offense. The Green Bay Packers scored on their first five series and beat the Rams 32-18 in the NFC divisional playoffs. “I love Aaron Donald,” Rams coach Sean McVay said. Yet this heavyweight matchup between the Packers’ offense and the Rams’ defense was more like a mismatch for much of the day. You have to defend every inch as far as laterally.”The Rams also had some uncharacteristic mistakes on defense to help Green Bay out.

He might find a moment after the Rams (10-6) finish their playoff run, which begins Saturday at Seattle. But Rams fans already appreciate a defense that topped the NFL in several important categories and excelled at nearly everything during a remarkable season. 1 in total yards allowed, yards passing allowed, passing TDs allowed, first downs allowed and points allowed while becoming the Rams' first top-ranked NFL defense in decades. “We're proud of the way we've competed,” Staley said Tuesday as the Rams began preparations for their trip to Seattle. ... LT Andrew Whitworth has a shot to return this week after tearing ligaments in his knee during the Rams' first meeting with Seattle in November.

The Latest on the effects of the coronavirus outbreak on sports around the world:___A positive COVID-19 test and ensuing contact tracing at Temple have postponed the Owls’ next two basketball games. The reserve/COVID list was created for a player has tested positive test or has been quarantined after having been in close contact with an infected person. The move came after the team stopped all in-person work at its practice facility and reported a positive COVID-19 test. ___Middle Tennessee has postponed a pair of basketball games at Florida Atlantic because of positive COVID-19 tests and contact tracing within the Blue Raiders’ program. ___The Atlanta Falcons have stopped all in-person work at their practice facility after a positive COVID-19 test.

The 37-year-old New York Jets running back has a bruised lung that coach Adam Gase said Monday will keep Gore out of the season finale at New England on Sunday. It was originally called a chest injury by the team after Gore left, but tests revealed the lung contusion. Gore has played in 240 games, a record for NFL running backs, over 16 seasons. Gore signed a one-year deal worth $1.05 million with the Jets last May and will be a free agent in the offseason. With Gore sidelined for the finale, the Jets will use La'Mical Perine, Ty Johnson and Josh Adams against the Patriots.

He entertained those along the bench by dancing after the Miami Dolphins' first touchdown, and greeted 5-foot-6 Jakeem Grant with a leaping chest bump to the face mask after another score. The early 33-yard scoring drive was the Dolphins' longest, as the big lead allowed them to keep Tagovailoa mostly under wraps. We tried to make him see a lot of different things, and for the most part it worked.”The Rams' defense received little support from their offense, though. “We heard a lot about the Rams' defense," Miami safety Eric Rowe said, “but they had to worry about our defense.”INJURIESTwo-time Rams Pro Bowl cornerback Jalen Ramsey became ill before the game and didn’t play. ANTHEMFifteen Rams players knelt during “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The Dolphins stayed in the locker room during the national anthem.