Lions fans better hope what Dan Campbell just said about Alim McNeill is true

It's officially time for the NFC North to be put on notice. The Detroit Lions announced on Wednesday ahead of Week 5 against the Cincinnati Bengals that they would be opening up Alim McNeill's practice window. This marks the first time that McNeill will be stepping foot on the field since tearing his ACL back in 2024.

McNeill, a key part to the Lions' defensive front line and a huge help to the teams' run defense, is joining a unit that is witnessing the resurgence of Aidan Hutchinson, the emergence of Al-Quadin Muhammad, and the growth of rookie Tyleik Williams.

It's, in short, scary hours for the NFL given the fact that the Lions have already looked dominant without McNeill this season. And, head coach Dan Campbell clearly feels the same way about his return to practice and the opening of his 21 day window.

“I’m sorry for some of those guys who have to line up across from him.”

Lions could soar if Campbell's McNeill warning is backed up

McNeill wrapped up his 2024 season with 25 tackles, 3.5 sacks, five stuffs for 11 stuff yards, and one pass defended. He looked incredible on the line last year prior to his injury, and it's clear him getting added back to the starting line could do wonders for a Detroit defense already flourishing thanks to Hutchinson, Muhammad, Williams, and DJ Reader.

One has to assume the starting line will include Hutchinson, Williams, Reader, and McNeill, but that does leave Detroit with a hole at the right EDGE. They have the tools to make up for that with linebackers like Alex Anzalone, Jack Campbell, and with safety Brian Branch being such a great pass rusher if used appropriately.