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It took just one half for Alim McNeill to show he's all the way back for Lions

Originally posted on Side Lion Report
By Candace Pedraza | Last updated Oct 20, 2025 8:43 PM ET

Detroit Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill has been itching to get back to the teams' defensive line since going down last December with a torn ACL. The defender, who is such an elite game wrecker and pass rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson this season, told The Athletic's Coulton Pouncy just the week just how badly he wanted to be back at Ford Field.

“It’s the only thing I’ve been looking forward to, don’t even know how to explain that to you. I’ve been waiting on this day for a long, long time.”

McNeill started for the Lions in Week 7 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and he immediately made his presence felt. He had a huge tipped pass on Baker Mayfield in the second quarter, and was largely unblocked by the Buccaneers' offensive line that seemed overwhelmed by his inclusion on the Lions' defensive line.

If there was any doubt that his return would be huge for this teams' defense, it was erased with that first half effort.

Usually takes some time after ACL to get back to previous form, but wow Alim McNeill already is looking like he never left.

Already multiple pressures on Baker and a PBU. pic.twitter.com/NZSRBq19y7
— Jimmy Liao MD | Detroit Lions Morning Rounds (@JimmyLiaoMD) October 20, 2025

McNeill all the way back for Lions vs. Buccaneers

With McNeill back in the fold, players like Hutchinson, Derrick Barnes, and Al-Quadin Muhammad can get freer opportunities to also rush the passer. All three can form quite the formidable trio, and the Lions are also expected to get back Marcus Davenport sometime next month to add even more fire power to their defensive front.