As far as preseason games go, this is the big one for the Detroit Lions. At least it was, until Dan Campbell announced that Jared Goff would sit. That implies many other stars will sit as well, including Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, Jameson Williams, and Penei Sewell. (Sam LaPorta is definitely out with a hip.) There wouldn’t be much point to risking those guys to play with the backup QB.
There will still be some key starters playing in this game though. With that in mind, here is my player watchlist for preseason Game 2 - Lions vs Commanders. The list is ordered by player number for easy reference during the game.
For the complete updated health rundown of the Lions roster, visit my Lions Injury Tracker at the top of my home page.
#2 Ennis Rakestraw, CB - Ankle sprain
This recent injury ended up being best-case scenario for Rakestraw. Almost certainly it’s a low-ankle sprain as opposed to a high-ankle sprain due to the non-contact mechanism. A low-ankle sprain is typically less concerning. It looks like he even has a chance to play in this game with the ankle taped/spatted up.
#4 DJ Reed, CB - Groin strain
Is Reed ready enough to play in this game after his mild groin strain? He’s been active in practice, so seems to be fully recovered. I wouldn’t want to risk the Lions #1 CB, but if he plays, that means there must not be any concern for aggravation.
#9 Derrick Moore, EDGE - Groin strain
This 2nd-round rookie has looked good in practice this week in recovery from his groin. That suggests he’ll get some action in this game. I’m excited to see him as he is, in my mind, the biggest wild card on defense this year.
#29 Avonte Maddox, S
Maddox didn’t play in the first preseason game (not apparently injury related), but figures to get some action here. He is in strong contention to start in Week 1.
#33 Sione Vaki, RB - Eye injury & Nasal fracture
Vaki has been practicing and taking some practice-level hits 2 weeks post-injury. Is he ready to take some real hits in a game? It would be nice to see him earn some carries this season.
If he plays, he’ll assuredly be wearing a visor for protection…
#36 Chuck Clark, S
Clark is firmly projected to be a Week 1 starting safety. In preseason Game 1, he appeared to stumble briefly after a headfirst tackle.