The Detroit Lions raised eyebrows when defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad — who recorded two-and-a-half sacks against Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson — appeared on the team’s estimated injury report. His name on the list came as a surprise to many, especially after such a dominant performance on Monday Night Football.
Detroit held a walkthrough on Wednesday, and Muhammad did not participate due to a knee injury. While the team has not released full details about the severity, the absence was notable given his recent impact on the field. Muhammad has emerged as a key contributor to the Lions’ defensive front, and any potential setback could affect their momentum heading into Week 4.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday evening, Muhammad expressed confidence that he would still suit up this weekend against the Cleveland Browns. Despite the injury, he remained optimistic and focused, indicating that he was preparing as if he would play.
The 30-year-old veteran spoke to Lions OnSI after the game and emphasized that the win over Baltimore was a total team effort. He credited the success to the defensive unit’s commitment to executing the rush plan laid out by defensive line coach Kelvin Sheppard.
“This was a team effort,” said Muhammad. “It’s everybody working together. Guys are going out there and hunting, you know, making some big plays. Just altogether.
“I mean, it started in practice early in the week. You know, we knew how special Lamar is, and we knew we had to come out here and be relentless. And we all worked together and we got the job done.”
Muhammad earned a game ball for his performance, a recognition of both his production and leadership. He shared that he had lost sleep during the week due to the pressure he placed on himself to deliver. With the coaching staff expanding his role, Muhammad felt a personal responsibility to rise to the occasion.
“I think I lost some sleep this week, you know, but definitely put a lot of pressure on myself,” said Muhammad. “Just being able to get this opportunity and stepping up to the plate and going out there and doing some great things. So, I definitely put a lot of pressure on myself, day-to-day, week-to-week.”
After the Lions defeated the Ravens 38–30, Lamar Jackson addressed the intense pressure he faced throughout the game. He was sacked seven times and struggled to find rhythm against Detroit’s aggressive defensive scheme.
“The Lions were doing stunts, and they had a spy. Sometimes the spy was grabbing my leg, and that’s just what it was,” said Jackson. “They were dropping into coverage, and they had three safeties back there, and I’m just not going to throw a Hail Mary ball. I’m going to read the coverage out, and then try to make something happen.”
Browns Coach Praises Lions Defensive Coordinator
Detroit’s next opponent, the Cleveland Browns, is heading to Ford Field with momentum after a win over the Green Bay Packers. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski spoke highly of Detroit’s defense and the work Kelvin Sheppard has done with the unit.
“Defensively, Kelvin Sheppard’s doing a tremendous job with this group of talent at all three levels. Obviously, (Aidan Hutchinson) 97 is terrific,” said Stefanski. “Gets off the ball, can rush, can play the run. Never stops. Big physical linebackers, very good in the back end.”
“I think (Brian) Branch is as good as it gets in this game. (Kerby Joseph) 31 led the league in interceptions last year, so they can take the ball away. They can play a variety of different defenses, but they do a really, really great job of it.”
With Muhammad’s status still uncertain but trending positive, and the Browns preparing to test Detroit’s defense, Sunday’s matchup promises to be a physical battle. If Muhammad plays, his presence could be pivotal in maintaining the Lions’ defensive dominance and continuing their early-season surge.