Detroit Lions Week 5 inactive list features Taylor Decker, Kingsley Eguakun, Khalil Dorsey, Sione Vaki, Zach Cunningham, Mekhi Wingo and Chris Smith. With Decker out, Giovanni Manu could slot in at left tackle as he’s shown readiness and mentorship from Decker and the OL staff. Penei Sewell continues to anchor an OL that hasn’t allowed a sack in three straight games, a stabilizing factor for Detroit’s offense. Manu emphasizes preparation and playing when called, a mindset that could influence the outing in Cincinnati.

Morton lauds Sewell’s craft as contagious for younger linemates, and the Lions will lean on the rookie’s readiness to offset Decker’s absence. The matchup against Cincinnati will test the depth behind Decker and could tilt opportunities for Detroit’s skill players if the line remains stout and protection stays clean. This situation remains a key fantasy lever for Week 5.

Fantasy takeaway: monitor Manu’s potential start and Sewell’s continued impact as Detroit battles for pass protection stability. If Manu starts, expect run-game refinements and similar pass-protection efficiency, keeping Jared Goff and company in a favorable position for a productive Week 5.

Detroit's Week 5 injury report lists four players ruled out: Sione Vaki (groin), Zach Cunningham (hamstring), Alim McNeill (knee), Khalil Dorsey (concussion). Safety Kerby Joseph and left tackle Taylor Decker are listed as questionable after Friday’s update, with Joseph’s knee issue described as lingering from last game and Decker fighting through a shoulder problem. Campbell stressed Joseph’s progress and Decker’s toughness, but acknowledged the veteran could be limited.

These absences punch a hole in Detroit’s defense and offensive line, potentially testing run defense and protection opportunities against Cincinnati. The uncertainty around Joseph and Decker adds a layer of risk for Lions fans and fantasy managers, while the rest of the injuries could push other Lions to step up in roles behind the depth chart. Closest attention should stay on Joseph’s availability and Decker’s status heading into Week 5.

Fantasy takeaway: monitor Joseph’s active status; if he plays, Lions’ defense remains steadier and smoother in coverage. If not, Cincinnati’s pass attack could exploit the holes, elevating Bengals receivers. Decker’s status will also influence Goff’s pocket pressure and the Lions’ ability to sustain the run and protect down the stretch.

Kerby Joseph's knee issue could sideline the Lions' top safety for a pivotal game against Cincinnati, with him missing back-to-back practices. Avonte Maddox filled in during Week 4, offering trusted depth if Joseph sits again. New practice notes show Khalil Dorsey back on the field after a concussion, while Decker, Vaki and Cunningham were absent from the open portion.

Detroit leans into man coverage, a design Campbell says accelerates the pass rush by keeping plays in front and forcing mistakes. Kelvin Sheppard's defense relies on sticky coverage and quick pressure, and Anzalone praised the secondary's depth as the unit braces for another tough AFC opponent.

With the Browns game earlier in the season showing Joseph's earlier involvement, this week tests the depth behind the veteran safety as the Lions balance risk and reward in a bid to constrain Cincinnati's aerial attack.

Jared Goff steered Detroit to a third straight win with a measured, on-schedule offensive game. He went 16-of-27 for two TDs and an INT, while the line stifled Myles Garrett and kept the attack moving. Amon-Ra St. Brown touched the ball twice in the end zone, Kalif Raymond provided a pivotal punt-return spark, and the defense/teams unit contributed to a 34-10 win that showcased Detroit’s complementary strengths.

The Lions leaned on their bolstered O-line, with Decker and Sewell handling Garrett and enabling a steady rhythm for Goff and the playmakers. Williams flashed potential but wasn’t the primary target, while LaPorta’s miscue was tempered by adjustments. For fantasy, the mix remains solid: St. Brown remains a stable weekly threat, Raymond a deep-outlet with special-teams upside, and the offensive line a big reason for continued efficiency.