After being cut loose and clearing waivers, Cabinda was added to the practice squad, which the Lions announced on January 2. After serving time on injured reserve, Cabinda had recently returned, and his release allowed a defensive player to return and take his place on the active squad.
Even though Cabinda is no longer on the active roster, he might play in the team’s season finale versus the Minnesota Vikings.
Fullback Dan Campbell Has Plans
The 27-year-old Cabinda, who spent his first season with the Oakland Raiders, is one of the offensive players with the longest contract. He joined the Lions in 2019. Over his five seasons with Detroit, he has made 45 appearances in games, including three this year.
Cabinda is no longer on the 53-man roster, although Lions head coach Dan Campbell made a suggestion that he might be added for the team’s season finale against the rival in the division.
According to Pride of Detroit, Campbell stated, “(I would) love to get C.J. [Gardner-Johnson] involved, love to get [Alim McNeill] involved, love to get Cabinda involved.”
Cabinda had defended the squad on social media earlier in the week following a contentious call during a loss to the Dallas Cowboys. On what would have been a game-winning 2-point convert, the Lions were called for unlawful touching; however, it was later discovered that lineman Taylor Decker had not declared himself eligible.
Cabinda responded to pundit Jayson Whitlock’s criticism of the Lions for allegedly sending three linemen to the referee in an effort to hide Decker’s reporting.
Cabinda commented on X, saying, “Gotta be one of the laziest takes I’ve seen.” “Sending only one OL to the referee for a two-point conversion when the defense is stagnant and can see everything going on is like telling on yourself pre-snap,” according to someone who actually knows football and plays like this.
Lions Regaining Well-Being for Defense
McNeill’s return to the active roster may be made possible by Cabinda’s release. He injured his knee in a victory over the New Orleans Saints on December 3, but the team announced that he was able to return to practice on Wednesday.
“Being back out there felt really good,” McNeill remarked following practice. “I feel like I have my energy back.” I’m feeling better now. It’s excellent.
The group mentioned how important McNeill has been to Detroit’s potent rushing defense. With the third-lowest average yards per rush, the team is allowing the fewest total rushing yards in the NFL.
Yes, it will be beneficial. “Having him back will be beneficial,” Dan Campbell informed reporters following the game on Wednesday. “And I’m sure he’s as excited about it as we are, so he’ll be getting some work here for us again.” It will always feel to him like Game 1 again around this time of year. It’s good because he’ll be fresh, have new legs, and have new energy.