Campbell makes McNeill central to defense's 2026 plans

He returned in Week 7 last year after a torn ACL.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jul 311 min read

"He's a huge piece for us on defense." -Coach Campbell on Alim McNeill https://t.co/mqla42Dggt Via @Lions on X

What happened: McNeill said in June that he feels like himself again following his 2024 knee injury. He returned during the 2025 season and played 10 games.

Why it matters: His $97 million contract extension raises the stakes for a rebound in 2026. Renewed pressure from the interior would strengthen the defense's pass rush.

By the numbers: McNeill recorded 14 tackles, one sack and 23 pressures in 10 games in 2025. Before the injury, he produced 25 tackles, 3.5 sacks and 45 pressures across 14 games in 2024.

What to watch: His workload and interior pass-rush production during training camp will offer the next measure of his recovery.

Sources

@Lions 2026-07-31T12:29:22.111524+00:00

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Campbell makes McNeill central to defense's 2026 plans

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