Facing myriad injuries across the defensive front, the Lions desperately needed someone to step up in the Thanksgiving matchup with the Chicago Bears. Al-Quadin Muhammad answered the bell for Detroit.
The veteran defensive lineman played very well in the Lions win, notably in the second half. Filling in for injured Josh Paschal and Levi Onwuzurike–both of whom were lost for the game in the first half–Muhammad offered energy and pass rush presence. Playing 43 snaps, Muhammad registered a sack and seven QB pressures, according to NFL Next Gen Stats from the game.
“I thought Muhammad played big for us,” coach Dan Campbell said after the game. “It was good to get him back in the lineup. He’s a relentless player, gives you all he’s got.”
The sack was Muhammad’s first of the year. He had 6.5 for the Colts in 2023, the only season of his seven-year NFL career where Muhammad was a regular starter. After spending time this season on Detroit’s practice squad, Muhammad could once again be called upon to play significant reps as the Lions’ injuries mount. No. 69 looked ready for more in a strong Thanksgiving performance.