The Detroit Lions lost several key players to injuries in Monday’s practice: running back Jahmyr Gibbs, rookie first-round cornerback Terrion Arnold and rookie second-round cornerback Ennis Rakestraw.
The Lions announced to reporters that Gibbs left practice with a leg injuryArnold suffered an upper body injury and raked straw suffered an ankle injuryESPN’s Adam Schefter later reported that Gibbs’ injury It’s in his hamstring.
All three were being evaluated after practice, reporters said. No further details about the injuries were immediately released.
Gibbs is coming off a standout rookie campaign that ended with Pro Bowl honors. A first-round pick in the 2023 draft, Gibbs racked up 1,216 yards from scrimmage and 11 touchdowns on an offense that ranked third in the NFL. He was instrumental in Detroit’s surge to the NFC North title and the NFC Championship Game.
Detroit’s secondary was its biggest weakness last season. The Lions addressed that with their first two picks in the NFL Draft. They selected Arnold of Alabama with the 24th pick and Rakestraw of Missouri with the 61st pick in April. Arnold is projected to be the starter, while Rakestraw is expected to play a large backup role in his rookie season.
The Lions are expected to compete for the NFC North title and beyond this season. Losing Gibbs, Arnold or Rakestraw for any significant time would be an early blow in what is expected to be a competitive race in the division.