Left guard Christian Mahogany is set to return to the starting lineup for Sunday’s game in Munich after being benched last week for a team rule violation. Head coach Dan Campbell confirmed Wednesday that Mahogany practiced with the first unit and expressed satisfaction with his preparation, stating, “He was good this morning”. Mahogany had apologized to the coaching staff and teammates following the disciplinary action that saw backup Miles Frazier start against Miami. Frazier struggled in that role, surrendering a sack and committing a holding penalty, which highlighted the drop-off in production when the team’s tenth-ranked guard by PFF was removed from the field.
Cisco Acquired for Depth
The Lions addressed their safety depth ahead of the trip to Germany by trading a 2028 sixth-round pick to the New York Jets for veteran Andre Cisco. While the team did not make additional moves at the deadline, general manager Brad Holmes secured a player familiar with the defensive scheme under former coordinator Aaron Glenn. Campbell indicated the plan is to get Cisco involved immediately, noting he could see defensive snaps alongside special teams duties in his debut. This acquisition provides insurance for Kerby Joseph, who remains on the physically unable to perform list with a knee injury and is not expected to play in Germany.
Bates Wins Third Straight Award
Kicker Jake Bates has been named the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week for the third consecutive time, completing a rare feat for the franchise. Bates was perfect on all four field goal attempts and one extra point in the 19-9 victory over the Miami Dolphins, accounting for 13 of the team’s 19 points. This marks the first time in Lions history that three different players—Bates, punter Jack Fox, and edge rusher DJ Wonnum—have won the award in three straight weeks, joining the Minnesota Vikings as the only teams to achieve this streak in 2026. Bates continues to lead the team in scoring, having hit 16 of 17 field goals this season.
Goff Listed as Limited
The injury report remains a critical factor for the trip to Munich, with quarterback Jared Goff listed as limited due to a chest injury. Goff has appeared on the practice report this season, though he has not missed a game since 2021. Defensive end DJ Wonnum is expected to return after clearing concussion protocol, while cornerback DJ Reed and center Cade Mays have a “way, way outside shot” of playing after missing practice all week. The team must manage these ailments while relying on internal depth as they face the New England Patriots.
Deadline Passes Without Major Moves
The trade deadline passed with the Lions making only the Cisco move, a decision that drew criticism from some analysts who felt the defense needed more help against division rivals. While the Chicago Bears acquired defensive tackle Jeffrey Simmons and the Minnesota Vikings signed Kirk Cousins, Detroit stood pat after the Cisco deal, with Brad Holmes protecting draft capital over immediate splash acquisitions. Some observers noted the Lions may regret not adding a cornerback or linebacker, given the injuries to Jack Campbell and the inconsistent play of the second-tier cornerbacks. However, Campbell expressed contentment with the roster, emphasizing the team’s internal depth and the competitive nature of the group as they head into the international game.
Sewell Anchors Strong Unit
The offensive line remains a strength despite the temporary absence of Mahogany, with Penei Sewell continuing to anchor the left side. Miami and earned a 76.6 PFF run-blocking grade, reinforcing his status as one of the league’s premier tackles. The unit’s performance was crucial in a game where the offense struggled to generate points, relying heavily on the special teams unit to keep the Lions in contention. With the offensive line ranked second in the NFL by PFF, the return of Mahogany should further solidify a group that has been a cornerstone of the team’s success this season.
This article was created by aggregating Detroit Lions news using Artificial Intelligence.
