ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions are optimistic about getting their top cornerback and a fan-favorite linebacker this week.
Dan Campbell said it’s looking positive for D.J. Reed heading into this week’s game against the New York Giants. Reed has been on injured reserve since suffering a hamstring injury against the Cleveland Browns in Week 4. The cornerback returned to practice last week, and Campbell initially mentioned December, but he appeared to be progressing well.
Reed’s return would be a major boost to the top of the secondary. And that’s no slight to Rock Ya-Sin or Amik Robertson -- Reed was great when active, and it would allow Robertson to move back inside once Terrion Arnold clears concussion protocol.
He allowed only 11 catches on 18 targets and no touchdowns in coverage across four games. Reed, the team’s big free-agent signing last offseason, allowed a passer rating of 61.3 when targeted, which remains one of the best marks in the NFL.
Malcolm Rodriguez is also nearing his return after being back at practice for the last three weeks. Rodriguez and the Lions had 21 days from his return to practice date to activate him, and that’s coming early this week. But it sounds likely to happen.
Rodriguez has been out since last November due to an ACL injury. He should be a major boost to special teams and the thriving linebacker rotation.
“Well, DJ Reed looks pretty positive here,” Campbell said. “You know, we’re gonna get him a week of work here and see where he’s at.
“Rodrigo is looking better. He’s getting better every day. So, you know, probably Reed and Rodrigo right now would be the top of that list (among the injured players likely to return this week).”
Campbell also mentioned that edge defender Josh Paschal continues to improve, and they’re getting to a good place before forcing the issue there. Paschal returned to practice on Nov. 5, so he still has time.
Then there is All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph, who remains without a definitive timeline for his return. Joseph has now missed four straight games, with the bye week in that span, as well. He played through a lingering knee injury through the first six games, posting three interceptions along the way.
Campbell does not seem optimistic about Joseph returning to action this weekend back at Ford Field against the Giants. But he said multiple times on Monday afternoon that “He’s getting better.”
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