Detroit Lions Injury Update: Key Players Out and Questionable for Monday Night Faceoff Against Buccaneers
The Detroit Lions are set to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a crucial Week 7 matchup on Monday Night Football. The game will take place on October 20, 2025, at Ford Field. With a current record of 4-2, the Lions are looking to rebound from a recent defeat against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Detroit Lions Injury Update
As the Lions prepare for their encounter with the 5-1 Buccaneers, injury concerns loom large. Seven players have been listed on the final injury report, significantly impacting the team’s strength.
Key Players Out
- Safety Brian Branch: Serves a one-game suspension.
- Safety Kerby Joseph: Out with a knee injury.
- Cornerback Avonte Maddox: Out with a hamstring issue.
- Cornerback Terrion Arnold: Out due to a shoulder injury.
- Running back Sione Vaki: Out with a groin injury.
Additionally, three players are listed as questionable:
Questionable Players
- Offensive tackle Taylor Decker: Questionable due to a shoulder injury.
- Defensive tackle Alim McNeill: Questionable with a knee issue.
- Nose tackle D.J. Reader: Questionable with a back problem.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Reinforcements
The Buccaneers are set to welcome back key players, including wide receiver Mike Evans. Evans, who has been sidelined for three weeks due to a hamstring injury, is expected to make a significant impact. Moreover, emerging talent Emeka Egbuka, a strong candidate for NFL Rookie of the Year, also aims to participate after dealing with a hamstring issue.
Recent Rivalry Stats
The matchup between the Lions and the Buccaneers has been competitive. Detroit has won two out of the last three encounters. However, Tampa Bay sealed a victory in their previous meeting, winning 20-16 in Week 2 of the 2024 season.
With kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. on ESPN, both teams will be looking to secure a crucial victory as they vie for positioning in their respective divisions.
