Lions rookie's injury is just the latest health scare for the Lions

This news is just the latest concerning injury update for a Lions defense that has already lost several talented players to injury before the start of the 2025 season.

Lions cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr was placed on IR last Thursday and is out for the season with a shoulder injury, while defensive end Levi Onwuzurike is also out for the year after he underwent surgery on a torn ACL injury. The team also saw Morice Norris land in concussion protocol after a very scary injury during the Lions' preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons.

Hassanein's preseason performance with the Lions

The Lions selected Hassanein with the 196th overall pick in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft to improve their group of edge rushers heading into the 2025 season. The rookie has played in the Lions' first two preseason games, recording three solo tackles.

He comes to the Lions after being a defensive leader for the Boise State Broncos for four seasons. His final season with the Broncos was the highlight of his college career as he led Boise State to the College Football Playoff, recording 48 total tackles on the season and 9.5 sacks.

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Hassanein's strides that he has made in Lions training camp have impressed the Lions coaching staff. He has been impressive in reps with his ability to rush the passer and has been praised for his intensity on defense.

His energy is exactly what Lions head coach Dan Campbell is looking for on defense heading into the 2025 season, which is why Detroit has to be hoping that his injury isn't too severe. Entering the season, Hassanein is currently behind Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, and Al-Quadin Muhammad on the defensive end depth chart.

It'll be intriguing to see what role Hassanein plays on the Lions' defense this season and how he grows throughout his rookie season.

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