Lions actually have some competition for most injured starters in NFL

There is no question that, at the very least, the Detroit Lions are one of the most injured teams in the NFL this season. We already know the Lions have the most players on injured reserve in total entering Week 17, so it's certainly safe to call Detroit the most injured team.

But what about the number of Week 1 starters on injured reserve or out? Well, no surprise, the Lions lead the NFL in that category with a whopping 31.8% of their opening-day starters on the shelf.

However, believe it or not, the Lions aren't alone in first place in that unfortunate category. They are actually tied with the Las Vegas Raiders, a team that also sports 31.8% of its Week 1 starters either on injured reserve or out with an injury.

It's unfathomable to think that another team is having anything close to the injury issues the Lions have had, but here we are. Of course, the major difference is that Detroit has been able to overcome its issues, while the Raiders clearly have not.

That speaks to the culture the Lions have built, but more importantly the roster that general manager Brad Holmes has constructed. At the very least, the Raiders are lacking the talent necessary to thrive in the wake of their injuries.

As the playoffs loom, the Lions are hoping to get back at least a few key players in running back David Montgomery and linebacker Alex Anzalone. Montgomery is expected back by the divisional round, and Anzalone could make it back before that.

If the Lions can make a deep playoff run, it's possible they could see cornerback Carlton Davis and edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson return. Davis has a shot to be back by the NFC Championship Game based on his recovery timeline, and Hutchinson has said he's targeting the Super Bowl.

But, first things first, the Lions have to make it there before we can even have that discussion. Detroit will first look to wrap up the NFC North and No. 1 seed in the conference, something they can do in Week 17.

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