On Monday, Dan Campbell made public a couple significant personnel changes that could significantly affect the Detroit Lions. Both fullback Jason Cabinda and defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson, who have both been sidelined for extended periods of time due to injuries, are expected to return to practice, according to Campbell. In addition, the team intends to sign rookie quarterback Hendon Hooker to the 53-man roster after his 21-day evaluation period ends.
After sustaining a torn pectoral muscle in Week 2, Gardner-Johnson’s return was essentially announced last week when Campbell verified that the veteran safety had received the all-clear to resume play. The Lions defense, which has had a terrible time stopping opposing quarterbacks, should benefit from his return. In terms of yards per attempt and passer rating allowed, Detroit’s pass defense is presently ranked 23rd.
The Lions have relied on a changing group of players at fullback in Cabinda’s absence. In Cabinda’s absence, linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez and tight ends Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright have filled in for sporadic backfield snaps. Since Week 3, the Lions fullback has been out.
Although Cabinda and Gardner-Johnson will be practicing again this week, their return will not immediately count against the 53-man roster. The day of their first practice will mark the start of their 21-day evaluation clock. They can be promoted to the 53-man roster at any moment after that. They are unable to participate in a game, though, until they get that promotion.
In related news, Hooker is expected to get promoted to the 53-man roster this week.
Campbell stated on Monday, “I believe we’re going to try to get Hooker on the roster.”
Considering how much the organization wants to nurture their rookie quarterback, that isn’t shocking. After resuming his career with an ACL tear in November of last year, Hooker has only had three weeks of practice. This week, the Lions’ only options were to cut Hooker or bench him for the remainder of the season.
The difficult aspect for the Lions is that they will have to make room on the roster for Hooker. It’s unlikely that the matching action will occur until Wednesday. But, the Lions will need to make a lot of roster space over the next month due to the probable returns of James Houston, Gardner-Johnson, Alim McNeill, and Cabinda, as well as the possible acquisition of Bruce Irvin from the practice squad.
