Lions’ Alex Anzalone and Kalif Raymond return from injuries to face Vikings in high-stakes game
DETROIT, MI - SEPTEMBER 24: Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone (34) is introduced during pregame festivities prior to the Detroit Lions versus the Atlanta Falcons game on Sunday September 24, 2023 at Ford Field in Detroit, MI. (Photo by Steven Ki
DETROIT (AP) - Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone and punt returner Kalif Raymond were active against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday night.
Anzalone, who has been out for several weeks with a broken forearm, and Raymond, who had a foot injury, had been listed as questionable on the injury report for the game, which was to determine the NFC North champion and the top seed in the conference playoffs, with the loser getting the No. 5 seed.
Minnesota previously ruled out edge rusher Patrick Jones with a knee injury sustained on a low block by Green Bay tight end Tucker Kraft last week. His absence further increases the role of rookie Dallas Turner in complementing Pro Bowl outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel.
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - DECEMBER 16: Alex Anzalone #34 of the Detroit Lions celebrates during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos at Ford Field on December 16, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Ryan Kang/Getty Images)