Can Detroit survive without their emerging tackler? Jimmy Rolder’s hamstring will sideline him for the season after Sunday’s clash with the Vikings.
Rolder’s setback slipped under the radar, eclipsed by Jack Campbell’s frightening injury that kept him in the hospital. Though less severe, the rookie’s loss hurts Detroit; he led the team in tackles during the win over Minnesota.
“Jimmy Rolder will need surgery and is out for the year,” head coach Dan Campbell warned.
For my money, Rolder was already a rising star on special teams after being drafted in the fourth round out of Michigan. Detroit endured multiple blows Sunday, with two defensive players exiting on separate plays, forcing Campbell to rally his squad for a gritty finish.
“Everyone faces setbacks, but this is our moment,” Campbell said. “We battled adversity and I’m proud of that effort.”
Rolder now heads to injured reserve while coaches assess the rest of the lineup. Will the Lions find a way to stay competitive amid the mounting injury list?