As if the Detroit Lions didn’t have enough early-season injury woes, the team lost another starting offensive lineman to a mid-week injury. On Friday, the team ruled out guard Joe Dahl for Sunday’s game against the Green Bay Packers due to a groin injury he suffered during Thursday’s practice.
In addition to Dahl, the Lions also ruled out wide receiver Kenny Golladay, cornerback Desmond Trufant and tight end Hunter Bryant. All three are dealing with hamstring strains. It will be the second straight week Golladay and Bryant will be sidelined, while Trufant was injured in the second half of the season-opener last weekend.
Surprisingly, right tackle Halapoulivaati Vaitai is listed as questionable, despite not practicing since early last week. Defensive tackle Nick Williams (shoulder), cornerback Darryl Roberts (calf) and safety C.J. Moore (hamstring) are also questionable.
If Vaitai can’t go, the Lions will turn to Tyrell Crosby for a second straight week. With Dahl, the team has multiple options. Based on the depth rotation, veteran Oday Aboushi figures to get the first crack. The team would also likely elevate Kenny Wiggins off the practice squad for the second consecutive week.
A third option is rookie Logan Stenberg, who labored through his first training camp while being pressed into some action at center, a position where he had little experience previously.
On Friday, Patricia noted Stenberg’s practice routine was currently focused on one position, presumably guard, and he is making steady progress with his development.
For the Packers, the team ruled out Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark with a groin injury.