The Detroit Lions expect rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs and defensive end Josh Paschal to return to action Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens. Dan Campbell said Friday that the Alabama product has looked good in workouts throughout the week.
Gibbs has missed each of the last two weeks with a hamstring injury, last playing in Week 4 against Green Bay. The rookie will have to play a big role with starter David Montgomery expected to miss the game with a rib injury.
"Certainly, I think, he's gonna need to take the load of (the carries), we're just gonna need to see where he's at," Campbell said. "I'd like to say we're gonna be careful with him but the reality of it is we need him. We'll go as far as he can take us here, trying to be as smart as we can but he's gotta go. He's ready."
The rookie has a different style of running than Montgomery, who is a physical, bruising back capable of toting 30-plus carries a game. Despite that, the Lions expect to maintain their identity on the ground.
"We really haven't to be honest. There's a few things we think he does well that certainly will carry, but ultimately we're gonna keep what we do well and what our O-line does well, our tight ends," Campbell said. "Because we believe he can, we don't think he's just some, you've got to get him on the perimeter, he's not an inside run, we don't believe that. We're keeping the identity of what we do, the core of what we do in the run game. That won't really change."
Paschal has been out since the season opener after being placed on injured reserve with a knee injury.
The Lions started Paschal's return to play window last week and anticipate the defender helping them against Baltimore. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn wouldn't speculate how big the Kentucky product's role would be Thursday but stated he expected him to help the defense.
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