Detroit Lions strong safety Deshon Elliott went down with an apparent shoulder injury in Sunday’s contest against The New York Jets after a contested catch with Jets running back Michael Carter. Elliot appeared slow to get up after the following play, and was immediately taken to the locker room where he failed to return to the game. Elliot was listed out on the practice report on Tuesday, and Lions Head Coach Dan Campbell did not offer many words of encouragement for the likelihood of him playing Saturday. Campbell stated “I would say right now he’s looking like he probably won’t make it” when referring to Elliott’s status for Saturday.
The Lions will have to play without one of their key defensive pieces in a must-win matchup against The Carolina Panthers in week 16. Special team standout CJ Moore slotted in for Elliott after he went down on Sunday, and we expect him to potentially start at safety alongside Kerby Joseph. Other players may have the opportunity to step in, such as second year player Ifeatu Melifonwu or Juju Hughes.
The Detroit Lions take on The 5-8 Panthers in Carolina this Saturday at 1:00 pm EST. The Lions are currently 2.5 point favorites.
