The Detroit Lions have already wrapped up the NFC North after they picked up a 30-24 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in Week 16, but they still have seeding to play for over the final two games of the season. Further aiding them in their quest to get the best possible seed out of the NFC is a fantastic update on one of their key pass rushers in James Houston.
Houston enjoyed a strong rookie campaign with the Lions in 2022, racking up eight sacks in just seven games of action, and it seemed like he was due for a larger role in 2023. Houston ended up fracturing his ankle in Week 2, though, and he hasn't played since then. However, Detroit designated him to return off of their injured reserve on Thursday afternoon, meaning they could get a massive boost for their huge Week 17 contest against the Dallas Cowboys.
Houston isn't an every-down player for Detroit on defense, as he primarily plays in obvious passing situations, but getting a boost to their pass rush at this time of the season is something that cannot be overlooked. The Lions benefited greatly from Houston's ability to drop opposing quarterbacks last season, and the hope is he can come back and pick up right where he left off last season.
Given the length of time he's been out, Houston shouldn't have huge expectations surrounding him once he returns, but he figures to be an impact player for the Lions as they approach the postseason. Houston may not play against the Cowboys, but his pending return to action is a huge win for Detroit moving forward.
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