Detroit Lions' Kerryon Johnson, 2 others out for Sunday's game vs. Rams
Dave Birkett, Detroit Free Press
https://www.freep.com/story/sports/...ons-injury-report-kerryon-johnson/2165681002/
The NFL's best team is getting one of its star defensive players back, while the Detroit Lions will once again be without their midseason MVP.
The Lions ruled rookie running back Kerryon Johnson out for the second straight game Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams due to
a knee injury he suffered in a Week 11 win over the Carolina Panthers.
Johnson's game designation is no surprise — he was expected to miss multiple weeks with his injury — but it still leaves the Lions (4-7) short-handed on offense as they cling to a glimmer of playoff hope.
The Lions also ruled out fullback Nick Bellore (ankle) and wide receiver Brandon Powell (calf) with injuries, and tight end Michael Roberts (shoulder) is doubtful.
With Johnson out, the Lions will turn to LeGarrette Blount once again to lead a rushing attack they hope can keep the Rams' high-powered offense at bay.
The Rams (10-1) rank second in the NFL in scoring at more than 35 points per game. The Lions haven't scored more than 32 points all year.
The Rams, who can clinch the NFC West title with a win Sunday at Ford Field, activated cornerback Aqib Talib off injured reserve on Friday.
Talib is expected to play Sunday for the first time since he suffered an ankle injury in a Week 3 win over the Los Angeles Chargers.
"They have great players on the defense, and are getting another great player back this week (in Talib), which is going to be a problem for us," Lions coach Matt Patricia said earlier this week. "I just think that they’re a really well-coached and well-played team right now. So, it’s a big challenge.”