It appeared awful in the moment during the Week 15 game against the Buffalo Bills, and it was quickly verified. Detroit Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill suffered a ruptured right ACL and was forced to miss the rest of the season, adding to Detroit’s already long list of defensive ailments. As players cleared out their lockers following the season, McNeill recalled the initial doubt regarding his rehabilitation schedule.
“As far as time, I have no idea,” McNeill remarked. “I’m taking things day by day right now. I’m just going through the procedure right now.” The rehabilitation duration after an ACL tear can be 9-12 months. It’s unclear whether McNeill had any additional knee damage that will affect his rehab and recovery time, but as the offseason progresses, we’ll see where he stands.
Doctor confirms the inevitable regardingAlim McNeill.
Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press spoke with Dr. David Chao of Sports Injury Central on radio row in New Orleans ahead of the Super Bowl about the Lions’ extensive list of injuries this season.
It’s hardly surprising that the timing of McNeill’s injury calls his availability for the start of next season into question. Chao, who was present when the incident occurred, identified McNeil as the most serious of the Lions’ injuries. “Alim McNeill is the major concern. “I think it will be difficult to be ready for the start of the season,” Dr. Chao stated. “Tough, but not impossible; if you can get him back for the second half of the season to be himself, that would be great. So that’s what the hope should be.”
The Lions have a history of being cautious with players recuperating from significant injuries, which is understandable, and McNeill will undoubtedly follow suit. He will be eased back into practice activities as soon as he is considered ready, and his return to the field may be delayed as long as possible. Given that McNeill may not be at full strength until later in the season, defensive tackle is likely to be on the radar in free agency and/or the draft.