The Detroit Lions have bolstered their secondary by signing experienced cornerback Kindle Vildor to their active roster after his tenure on the practice squad.
According to Justin Rogers of the Detroit News, on December 5, the Lions executed a series of transactions which included placing defensive tackle Alim McNeill on injured reserve. Additionally, they brought in defensive tackle Tyson Alualo and offensive lineman Matt Farniok to strengthen their practice squad.
Rogers highlighted that Vildor, who previously played against the Lions as a member of an NFC North rival, was a fifth-round pick from Georgia Southern in 2020. He has accumulated 22 starts in his professional career, all with the Chicago Bears, primarily functioning as an outside cornerback. Vildor also had a stint with the Tennessee Titans last season and was most recently part of the Philadelphia Eagles’ practice squad.
Lions’ Secondary Hit Hard by Injuries
Vildor’s addition provides an opportunity to fortify the secondary, which has been dealing with several significant injuries, notably to key offseason acquisitions. Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson suffered a season-ending torn pectoral muscle, while cornerback Emmanuel Moseley tore his ACL in his first game back from an ACL injury in his opposite knee last season.
Despite Moseley’s injury, Coach Campbell expressed confidence in the secondary, citing strong performances from Jerry Jacobs and Will Harris. He highlighted Harris’s versatility, capable of playing both in the slot and as an outside defender. Campbell emphasized the intelligence and cohesion within the group, mentioning their ability to collaborate effectively. Additionally, Campbell praised Cam Sutton’s influence, referring to him as a dependable and adaptable player who has significantly contributed to the team’s defensive strategies.
Lions Bring in Help for Defensive Line
Vildor’s acquisition indeed strengthens the secondary, but the Lions’ recent roster adjustments also focus on bolstering the defensive line. The addition of Alualu brings in a seasoned veteran, and there’s potential for further reinforcement by considering the promotion of Quinton Bohanna from the practice squad to the active roster.
According to Mike Payton of AtoZ Sports, the Lions might be inclined to sign Bohanna, a third-year defensive tackle who has stood out on the practice squad. Given the maximum of three elevations allowed from the practice squad, there’s speculation that the team could opt to promote Bohanna to the active roster for added depth along the defensive line.
“Three regular-season games and two consecutive starts suggest a growing level of trust in Quinton Bohanna, indicating the Lions’ interest in continuing to explore his potential,” stated Payton in a piece published on December 6. “This becomes especially pertinent with McNeill sidelined for a minimum of the next four games. To field Bohanna, the team will need to elevate him to the active roster.”
Despite Alim McNeill’s placement on injured reserve, there remains optimism regarding his potential return before the season concludes. While McNeill is set to miss at least the next four games, Justin Rogers reported on X, previously known as Twitter, that a team source suggested it’s not immediately deemed a season-ending injury. There’s hope for McNeill to make a comeback either by the season finale or potentially even during the playoffs.
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