As the Detroit Lions march into Week 6 of the 2024 NFL season, their 4-1 record stands as proof that they’ve turned a corner and become serious contenders in the NFC North. However, the strength of the team has come under scrutiny as injuries have begun to impact their depth. The Detroit Lions depth chart has undergone several key changes, and while injuries have certainly created challenges, they’ve also opened up new opportunities for other players to step up and make an impact.
This article dives deep into the shakeup within the Detroit Lions depth chart and analyzes the roles of both starters and backups in the wake of these injuries. From the defensive line to the offensive backfield, every position group is facing some level of change as the Lions look to maintain their momentum and contend for a postseason run.
Defensive Line: Adjusting to the Loss of Aidan Hutchinson
One of the most significant blows to the Lions this season has been the loss of star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson. Hutchinson, who was having an All-Pro caliber year, suffered a fractured tibia and fibula during a Week 6 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. This injury not only removed the Lions’ most productive pass rusher but also shook up the core of their defensive line. According to the latest Detroit Lions depth chart, Hutchinson’s injury has led to some significant adjustments.
Stepping into a larger role in Hutchinson’s absence is John Cominsky. Known for his versatility along the defensive line, Cominsky can play both inside and outside, but he’ll now be tasked with being a more consistent edge rusher. Cominsky has flashed potential throughout his career, but the question remains whether he can produce at the same level as Hutchinson.
Romeo Okwara, another key player in the rotation, has experience and has been productive in the past, particularly in 2020 when he led the team in sacks. Now, Okwara will be relied on to regain that form. Additionally, his younger brother, Julian Okwara, has the opportunity to prove his worth. Julian has displayed the athleticism and ability to make plays off the edge, but consistency will be key as he steps into a more prominent role.
The Lions could also look at depth options like Isaiah Buggs or Levi Onwuzurike to bolster their defensive line rotation. Both players have shown flashes of talent in limited snaps, and with Hutchinson out, they’ll have more chances to make an impact.
Offensive Line: Coping with Taylor Decker’s Ankle Injury
The Lions’ offensive line has been one of the most consistent units in the league, but injuries to key players are starting to disrupt that stability. Taylor Decker, the Lions’ starting left tackle, has been battling an ankle injury that has limited his availability. Decker is a critical piece of the Lions’ pass protection, and his absence has forced the team to shuffle the Detroit Lions depth chart on the offensive line.
Penei Sewell, the team’s right tackle, has stepped in at left tackle during Decker’s absence. Sewell, a former first-round pick, has proven capable of playing both tackle spots, but moving him disrupts the continuity of the offensive line. While Sewell has held his own on the left side, the Lions have had to lean on backup options to fill in at right tackle.
One of those backups is veteran Matt Nelson, who has taken snaps at right tackle in Sewell’s absence. Nelson, a converted defensive lineman, has experience in the role but isn’t as dominant as Sewell. The Lions also have Graham Glasgow, who has stepped in at guard due to injuries and could be called upon again if the shuffling along the offensive line continues. Glasgow’s versatility allows the Lions to move pieces around without significant drop-offs in performance.
The Lions also have young offensive linemen like Colby Sorsdal who could be given more opportunities to step up. Sorsdal, a fifth-round pick, has seen limited action, but his development could be crucial as the Lions navigate the challenges posed by Decker’s injury. Protecting quarterback Jared Goff is essential to the Lions’ success, so managing this offensive line shakeup will be critical moving forward.
Running Back: Jahmyr Gibbs Emerging as a Key Weapon
Injuries have also affected the Lions’ running back depth, particularly with veteran David Montgomery dealing with a rib injury. Montgomery has been a powerful force in the Lions’ backfield, bringing a physical running style that complements rookie Jahmyr Gibbs. However, with Montgomery’s status in question, Gibbs has taken on a larger role in the offense.
Gibbs, a first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, has shown explosive playmaking ability both as a runner and a receiver. He has the speed to break off long runs and the hands to be a reliable target out of the backfield. As the Lions’ offensive coordinator leans more heavily on Gibbs, his versatility will be a key component in maintaining balance in the offense. Gibbs has already flashed his potential in Montgomery’s absence, and as the season progresses, he could become the featured back.
Behind Gibbs, the Detroit Lions depth chart lists Craig Reynolds as the next man up. Reynolds has been solid in limited opportunities, showing he can handle a heavier workload if needed. The Lions may also look to bring in additional depth at running back through free agency if Montgomery’s injury lingers.
Wide Receiver: Jameson Williams Poised for a Breakout
The wide receiver room is another position group that has seen movement on the Detroit Lions depth chart due to injuries. Josh Reynolds has been dealing with a groin injury, which has limited his availability. This has opened the door for Jameson Williams to step into a larger role.
Williams, who was suspended for the first four games of the season, is an explosive receiver with game-changing speed. He was drafted in the first round in 2023, and the Lions have been eager to see him develop into a consistent deep threat. With Reynolds sidelined Williams now has the opportunity to establish himself as a key part of the offense. His ability to stretch the field will force defenses to respect the deep ball, opening up more opportunities for other receivers like Amon-Ra St. Brown and tight end Sam LaPorta.
The Lions also have veteran Marvin Jones Jr., who provides a reliable presence in the passing game. Jones has been a steady contributor throughout his career and will be called upon to mentor younger receivers like Williams while also filling in as needed.
Secondary: Tracy Walker’s Absence Creates Opportunities for Youth
The secondary is another area where injuries have reshuffled the Detroit Lion’s depth chart. Safety Tracy Walker has been dealing with a hamstring injury, which has given younger players like Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch more playing time.
Joseph, who emerged as a playmaker in 2023, has taken on more responsibilities in Walker’s absence. His ability to read the quarterback and make plays on the ball has made him a valuable asset in the secondary. Joseph’s development will be key as the Lions continue to face high-powered passing offenses.
Rookie Brian Branch has also seen more action, showcasing his versatility by playing both safety and cornerback. Branch has been one of the Lions’ most promising young players, and with Walker out, he’ll have more opportunities to prove himself. His physicality and football IQ make him a standout in the secondary, and the Lions will need him to continue performing at a high level.
What’s Next for the Lions?
The Detroit Lions depth chart has certainly been tested by injuries, but the team’s depth and versatility have allowed them to remain competitive. As the season progresses, the Lions will need to continue managing these injuries carefully while allowing their younger players to step up and contribute.
General Manager Brad Holmes may also look to make moves before the trade deadline to bolster the roster, particularly on the defensive line and offensive line, where injuries have created the most uncertainty. Whether through trades, free agency, or internal promotions, the Lions have options to address these challenges and continue their push toward the playoffs.
For a deeper dive into potential roster moves and trade scenarios, check out our article on Detroit Lions trade rumors. As the Detroit Lions depth chart continues to evolve, keeping an eye on potential changes will be critical in predicting how the Lions will navigate the rest of the season.
