Breaking news: Just In Lions James Houston Breaks Silence on Potential Return Timeline

Another defensive starter, defensive tackle Alim McNeill, has been placed on injured reserve for the Detroit Lions as of December 5. It’s projected that McNeill could return at the earliest for the regular season finale. However, there’s positive news for the Lions concerning linebacker James Houston’s recovery. Houston appears to be on track for a comeback before Week 18.

“It looks like I should be able to return before the playoffs, getting some games in,” Houston informed reporters on December 6.

 

 

Despite having played only nine NFL games, the 25-year-old linebacker has been a significant absence for the Lions. During his rookie season last year, Houston made an impact in just seven games, recording impressive stats with 8 sacks, 7 tackles for loss, and 11 quarterback hits.

Houston has been out of action since sustaining a fibula injury on special teams during Week 2.

Lions’ ‘Game-Changer’ James Houston Getting Closer to Return

Following a remarkable second half in 2022, there was considerable anticipation surrounding Houston’s performance this season. However, due to his injury, he has been limited to only 32 defensive snaps.

The hope was that with Houston and fellow second-year defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, the Lions’ ability to pressure quarterbacks would notably improve. Despite overall defensive improvements, Detroit currently ranks 27th in sacks with 25 and shares the 23rd spot with just 14 takeaways.

Should Houston make a return, the Lions would gain a defensive asset capable of generating significant plays.

Expressing his potential impact, Houston conveyed to the media, “I consider myself an incredibly explosive player. I like to think I’m a game-changer. That’s where I believe I can make a difference, particularly in pass rushes, securing sacks, forcing fumbles, and even interceptions. These are the kinds of plays that alter a game’s course, shift momentum, and that’s what I strive for.”

In his NFL debut last season, Houston impressively recorded 2 sacks in just 5 defensive snaps. Furthermore, from Week 13 onwards in 2022, he tallied 6 sacks in six games, contributing significantly to the Lions finishing with a 5-1 record during that stretch.

Houston Aiming to Return With C.J. Gardner-Johnson

The Lions might witness another impactful return on defense apart from Houston. Defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson has been teasing his potential comeback on social media.

On November 30, Gardner-Johnson posted a black screen on his Instagram story with the caption “December 20,” aligning with the first day of Lions’ practice for the Week 16 game against the Minnesota Vikings.

While Lions head coach Dan Campbell made a lighthearted remark on November 20, suggesting Gardner-Johnson would need mutant genes like Wolverine to return by that date, he didn’t entirely rule out the possibility.

Houston, on the other hand, wasn’t as specific as Gardner-Johnson regarding his return date. However, he hinted at a comeback before the playoffs, mentioning the phrase “some games.”

Interpreting Houston’s statement, it seems likely he anticipates returning, at the latest, against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 17. The Lions will conclude their regular season against the Vikings in Week 18.

Houston highlighted the significance of both his and Gardner-Johnson’s potential return before the postseason, emphasizing their impact on the team’s performance.

“These are two high-caliber players, and I believe we can truly alter the course of our season, particularly on defense,” said Houston. “Both players can make a significant contribution to our defense. I’m excited, and I know he’s eager too. I think we can achieve a lot. I’m sure AG (Aaron Glenn) is looking forward to our return, so it should be an exhilarating time.”