Report: Lions DT Nick Fairley out 4-5 weeks with PCL, MCL sprains
Nick Fairley's collision with teammate Ndamukong Suh during the Detroit Lions' 22-21 victory over the Atlanta Falcons this weekend at London's Wembley Stadium left Fairley with a sprained MCL and PCL, ESPN reported Monday. The injury is expected to keep the defensive tackle out for only four to five weeks, a shorter duration than pundits and Lions fans originally feared.
Fairley injured himself while in pursuit of Falcons' quarterback Matt Ryan on a passing play. He ran into Suh and was carted off of the field after his leg buckled. Initially, it was suspected that Fairley had suffered a season-ending injury.
If the projected timetable for return is accurate, Fairley could be back in action for the Lions as early as Thanksgiving Day against the Chicago Bears. The Lions have a bye week this upcoming week after returning stateside from London.
Fairly, along with Suh, has anchored one of the strongest defenses in the NFL this season. Detroit is the only team to allow fewer than 300 yards per game.
The Auburn product has 14 tackles and one sack on the year.
- Will Green
