On Wednesday, the Detroit Lions resumed their practice sessions in preparation for the upcoming Week 16 clash against the Minnesota Vikings. During the part of practice accessible to the media, Jerry Jacobs was notably absent. On the positive side, safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson made a return to practice, marking his first session since sustaining a torn pec in Week 2 against Seattle. The experienced safety now enters a 21-day evaluation period, after which the Lions will need to decide on his activation. Interestingly, Wednesday also happened to be Gardner-Johnson’s 26th birthday.
Jerry Jacobs, a third-year cornerback from Arkansas State, has played a pivotal role in Detroit’s defense throughout this season. Despite entering the league as an undrafted free agent, Jacobs has started in 12 games and participated in 13. Notably, in the previous week, he did not initiate the game as cornerback for the first time this season, as Khalil Dorsey assumed the position opposite Cam Sutton. In the victory against Denver, Dorsey and Kindle Vildor shared playing time at that spot.
Jacobs was a special teams player before suffering a hamstring injury and being sidelined. Due to Jacobs’ injury, the Lions welcomed cornerbacks Thomas Graham and Jace Whittaker for visits on Tuesday.
With three interceptions, the skilled defensive back leads the club, although he has struggled in coverage at times this season. According to Pro Football Focus, he has allowed 47 completions on 71 targets for 602 yards and seven touchdowns this season. Dan Campbell and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn made the decision to remove Jacobs from the starting lineup as part of a reshuffling. Ifeatu Melifonwu has started the last two games at safety, with Dorsey and Vildor seeing more playing time at cornerback.
“Following the game, Campbell expressed, ‘We believed it was a step that improved our team. It provided them with an opportunity to step up, and now we have Jerry back contributing to special teams as well.’ He highlighted Jerry’s proficiency as a gunner and jammer, emphasizing his value in those roles. We’re continually pushing forward, offering chances for these individuals to showcase their abilities and compete. Today, they performed well, particularly in the defensive backfield.’
This upcoming Sunday’s game holds immense significance for the Lions, as securing a victory would mark the organization’s first division title since 1993.”
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