The Detroit Lions are preparing for a crucial Week 16 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, and they are set to receive a significant boost to their offensive line with the return of Christian Mahogany. This development comes as the team finalizes its depth chart ahead of the game.
At quarterback, Jared Goff retains his starting position, backed up by Kyle Allen. Goff”s performance will be critical, especially as he faces the pressure of outshining Aaron Rodgers in what may be Rodgers” last appearance against the Lions at Ford Field. The Lions previously swept the Packers in Rodgers” final year within the division, raising the stakes for this encounter.
In the backfield, Jahmyr Gibbs continues to be the focal point, supported by David Montgomery and reserves Sione Vaki and Jacob Saylors. Recent snap counts indicate the Lions” commitment to Gibbs, who is recognized as one of the league”s most explosive running backs. Meanwhile, Montgomery”s role has diminished in recent weeks, but his experience could prove invaluable.
The receiving corps features starters Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Isaac TeSlaa, with Kalif Raymond, Tom Kennedy, and Dominic Lovett as backups. Despite returning from injury, Raymond”s presence has not diminished TeSlaa”s workload, who has consistently contributed even without a broad target share. Both St. Brown and Williams are expected to continue their strong performances from last week.
At tight end, Shane Zylstra starts with Anthony Firkser as his backup, and Giovanni Ricci has been elevated from the practice squad. With injuries sidelining Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright, Zylstra is anticipated to play a significant role again.
The offensive line sees Taylor Decker (LT, questionable, shoulder), Christian Mahogany (LG, questionable, fibula), Kingsley Eguakun (C, practice squad elevation), Tate Ratledge (RG), and Penei Sewell (RT) as starters. The inclusion of Eguakun suggests that Glasgow may not be available after being added to the injury report and missing practice. Eguakun”s recent elevation indicates the team is preparing for any eventuality.
On the defensive front, DJ Reader and Alim McNeill will start at defensive tackle, with backups including Roy Lopez and Tyleik Williams. The defensive line has largely remained healthy this season, and Reader”s partnership with Lopez has proven effective, with Lopez contributing a sack last week.
The edge rushers include Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport, while Al-Quadin Muhammad and Tyrus Wheat serve as backups. After a standout performance against the Cowboys, Muhammad saw less action last week, but expect him and Davenport to alternate snaps alongside Hutchinson.
At linebacker, the starters are Alex Anzalone (WILL), Jack Campbell (MIKE), and Derrick Barnes (SAM), with Trevor Nowaske, Malcolm Rodriguez, and Grant Stuard as backups. The trio has been dependable throughout the season, with Rodriguez”s usage particularly worth monitoring as his rookie contract nears its end.
In the secondary, the starting corners are D.J. Reed and Rock Ya-Sin, with Amik Robertson (questionable, hand) and Khalil Dorsey as backups. Robertson”s injury could lead to more rotation, with Dorsey stepping in when needed. The safety positions are held by Avonte Maddox and Thomas Harper, as Jalen Mills and Daniel Thomas provide backup support.
Finally, the special teams unit remains unchanged, with Jake Bates handling kicking duties, Jack Fox as the punter, and Hogan Hatten as the long snapper. Tom Kennedy and Jacob Saylors will continue to manage kick returns, while Kalif Raymond handles punt returns. Bates has struggled with consistency this season, having missed several field goals.
