Detroit Lions flop in Minnesota: Dave Birkett, Jeff Seidel analysis
Dave Birkett, Jeff Seidel talk Detroit Lions flop at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis on Thursday, Dec. 25, 2025.
One of the pillars of the Detroit Lions’ offensive line remained conspicuous by his absence.
Star right tackle Penei Sewell missed his second consecutive practice Thursday, Jan. 1.
Sewell injured his ankle in the Lions’ Christmas Day loss to Minnesota, missing six snaps during the second quarter before returning and finishing the game.
“I think it was one of those things where it happened quick and went away and I was able to go back,” Sewell said afterwards.
If Sewell isn’t available this Sunday for the season finale against the Chicago Bears, veteran Dan Skipper could be tabbed to replace him. Skipper made a spot start at left tackle against the Vikings after Taylor Decker came down with the flu. Decker has practiced on a limited basis each of the past two days and anticipates playing this weekend, which gives the Lions more flexibility to prepare a contingency plan in case Sewell can’t go.
Sewell was one of three players who sat out Thursday. The other two, defensive tackle Alim McNeill (abdomen) and reserve guard/center Trystan Colon (wrist), also missed practice Wednesday.
While Sewell, McNeill and Colon remained sidelined, receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown (knee/ankle), linebacker Alex Anzalone (concussion), safety Thomas Harper (concussion), left guard Christian Mahogany (illness) and backup interior lineman Kayode Awosika (illness) all returned to the field Thursday. They were all listed as limited participants on the team’s official report.
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