The Detroit Lions have Super Bowl aspirations in 2024. After coming close last season, this team is one of the favorites to come out of the NFC. Training camp has not gotten off to a good start in terms of injuries. The secondary has been ravaged this week and the front office made a move to help the depth. Detroit signed cornerback Essang Bassey to a deal.
Detroit Lions Sign CB Essang Bassey
Carlton Davis III was not at Monday’s practice, and the reason for this is unknown. On top of that, rookies Terrion Arnold (upper body) and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (ankle) had to leave practice. Veteran Emmanuel Moseley is already done for the season with a torn pectoral muscle. While the prognosis seems positive for these players, it isn’t the news fans want to hear.
Essang Bassey was an undrafted free agent out of Wake Forest in 2020. He played for the Broncos and Chargers last year and was serviceable when called up. He had 21 tackles and three passes deflected in two starts in 2023. For the Detroit Lions, this is likely a temporary depth move, but depending on the severity of the injuries, they could need him longer.
Inauspicious Start To 2024
The secondary was one of the weak points of last year’s team. GM Brad Holmes made a point to fix it in the offseason. Arnold fell in their laps in the NFL Draft, and many praised the trade for Davis III. Now, both of those players are dealing with injuries. It isn’t just on the defensive side of the ball. Jahmyr Gibbs is also dealing with a leg injury, and it is unclear exactly how much time he will miss.
Gibbs was a huge part of the offense last season. The former first-round pick showcased his devastating speed and pass-catching prowess. If he is not able to go in week 1, the offense will have to figure out how to produce without one of their best weapons.
Final Thoughts
Detroit Lions fans do not want to hear about these injuries in a season that has so much promise. However, they are not the only NFC favorite that is dealing with them. San Francisco had to cancel a practice because they didn’t have enough active players. Injuries are part of the game; the best teams are able to navigate them and move forward.
Also, you never know with signings like Essang Bassey. Players sometimes need to find the right situation, and then they thrive. As of right now, there shouldn’t be any panic. However, these are injuries to keep an eye on as the start of the season gets closer.