The Detroit Lions find themselves grappling with a significant setback on the defensive line as starting tackle Alim McNeill has been placed on injured reserve due to a sprained knee suffered in their recent victory over the New Orleans Saints. McNeill, enjoying a career-best season with five sacks and 31 total tackles, is set to miss at least the next four weeks, further compounding the challenges faced by the injury-riddled Lions defense.
Amidst this predicament, there are indications that the Lions could turn to Quinton Bohanna, a practice squad standout, to fill the void left by McNeill’s absence. Mike Payton of AtoZ Sports suggests that the Lions may elevate Bohanna to the active roster to provide experienced depth and help fortify the defensive line.
Bohanna, who has been elevated for the last three games, has logged 20 or more snaps in each, showcasing his potential impact. However, with the team having reached the maximum of three practice squad elevations, a decision to activate Bohanna to the active roster would be necessary to continue utilizing his services for the remainder of the season.
Considering Bohanna’s increased playing time and the apparent growing trust from the coaching staff, Payton anticipates that the Lions may make the move to sign Bohanna on Saturday, the deadline for finalizing practice squad elevations and other roster adjustments. This decision would require another player to be removed from the active roster, with Steven Gilmore or Chase Lucas identified as potential candidates by Payton.
Bohanna, a sixth-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys in 2021, has showcased promise in his limited NFL experience. The 24-year-old defensive tackle played in 14 games in his rookie season, making one start, and saw an increased role in his second year, featuring in 13 games with nine starts. His contributions included 20 tackles, three for a loss, and two quarterback pressures.
While Bohanna faced roster changes in Dallas during the preseason, his physical attributes, described as a “mountain” by Reid Hanson of USA Today’s Cowboys Wire, make him an intriguing prospect for the Lions. With enormous mass and a quick step off the snap, Bohanna presents a combination of strength and agility that aligns with the defensive requirements sought by the Cowboys.
As the Lions navigate defensive challenges, including injuries to key players like safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson, cornerback Emmanuel Moseley, and pass rusher James Houston, the potential elevation of Quinton Bohanna represents a strategic move to address immediate needs and potentially unearth a valuable asset for the future.
Lions elevate Bruce Irvin and Quinton Bohanna for Week 13 https://t.co/l7i4ShlTET
— Lions on Scoreboard Page (@LIONSonSP) December 2, 2023
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