Players Ruled OUT

- RG Kevin Zeitler (hamstring) - DL Pat O’Connor (calf) Kevin Zeitler will not be taking the field due to a hamstring injury that has hindered his ability to practice all week. Although he was seen working with trainers, it wasn't enough to clear him for play. Given Zeitler’s absence, Lions coach Dan Campbell announced that rookie Christian Mahogany is set to start at right guard. Campbell expressed confidence in Mahogany’s abilities, highlighting his impressive performance during Week 16: “We thought that was a good showing by him and it was worthy of giving him a shot,” he remarked, while also praising veteran Kayode Awosika, who has playoff experience and will serve as an important backup. O’Connor's future also looks bleak as he has not participated in practices this week, and there are speculations that he might be headed to injured reserve soon as noted by the coaching staff.

Questionable Players

- CB Ennis Rakestraw (hamstring/illness) — Rakestraw returned to practice on Thursday after being sidelined due to an illness. He initially began an injury evaluation prior to last week, and his questionable status leaves the possibility open for activation to the 53-man roster for this pivotal game.

Players Not Listed with an Injury Designation

- RB David Montgomery (knee) - LT Taylor Decker (personal) - CB Terrion Arnold (foot) Montgomery, who was once thought to be out for the season, has made a remarkable recovery. After four weeks of hard work, he is expected to be fully available for Saturday's clash. Arnold also faced significant injury concerns after being carted off in Week 18; however, he’s successfully returned to practice and appears ready for action. Decker’s absence from Thursday’s practice was due to a joyous personal event—he welcomed the birth of his son, Dane.

Commanders’ Injury Updates

Starters are bolded Players ruled OUT: - LB Jordan Magee (hamstring) Questionable: - TE Colson Yankoff (hamstring, on IR) - LB Mykel Walker (illness) — Walker was added to the injury report on Thursday, casting some doubt on his availability. With the stakes so high for this playoff matchup, both teams are feeling the pressure not just from their opponents, but also from the injury bug. The absence of key players like Zeitler and Magee could significantly impact the game’s outcome. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see how these developments will affect both teams' strategies as they aim for a shot at the Super Bowl! Stay tuned for more updates as kickoff approaches—the excitement builds, and so do the questions! What will be the final impact of these injuries on the game? Who will step up in the face of adversity? Only time will tell!