Lions Confirm DT Alim McNeill Tore His ACL

It’s a massive blow for a Lions defense that has already been hit hard by injuries, especially on the defensive line. It’s also tough for McNeill because the standard nine to 12-month rehab timeline will push into next season. 

McNeill, 24, was a two-year starter at NC State and a First-Team All-ACC as a junior. The Lions used the No. 72 overall pick in the third round of the 2021 draft on McNeill.

McNeill was in the final year of his four-year, $5,129,186 contract when he agreed to a brand new four-year extension worth $97 million and included $55 million guaranteed this past offseason.

In 2024, McNeill appeared in 14 games for the Lions and recorded 25 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, a forced fumble and a pass defense.