Amon-Ra St. Brown's injury status for Thursday Night Football: Will Lions WR be playing?

The Detroit Lions faced a double setback during their 2025 Thanksgiving Day matchup against the Green Bay Packers. Not only did they fall short in the game, but they also lost a key offensive player early on. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown left the field in the first quarter after an ankle injury, sustained when a lineman accidentally rolled onto his leg while he was blocking a defender.

Although St. Brown managed to walk off the field under his own power, he quickly headed to the locker room. He exhibited a noticeable limp and was eventually ruled out for the remainder of the game after initially being marked as questionable to return.

The encouraging news is that St. Browns injury does not seem to be severe. However, with the Lions scheduled for a second consecutive Thursday game, his availability for Week 14 remains uncertain as the team aims to climb back into the NFC playoff race.

Will Amon-Ra St. Brown Play in Week 14?

As of now, the Lions have not confirmed whether St. Brown will participate in the Week 14 game against the Dallas Cowboys. He did not practice on December 1 or December 2, according to the teams injury report. During a media session on December 2, St. Brown commented on his recovery: It hurts, but its getting better. Just taking it day by day, trying to be out there for my teammates.

He also mentioned focusing on the mental aspects of preparation, reviewing the playbook to compensate for missed practice reps. Physically, however, some movements remain challenging. Running straight is not the issue, he explained. Its the cuts, stops, and all the small movements that you dont even think about.

With each day of recovery, hopes rise that the team can make a final decision about his participation on December 4, just before facing the Cowboys. Head coach Dan Campbell offered cautious optimism, saying: If he can play, hell play.

Insider reports suggest the Lions may delay finalizing St. Browns status until closer to game day. ESPN analyst Adam Schefter noted that the team will likely give him a chance to participate, highlighting the receivers toughness and determination.

Practice and Game Readiness

The Lions will release practice reports on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday leading up to Thursdays matchup. If St. Brown is able to practice fully early in the week, he could play without missing additional time. Limited or non-participation could make it difficult for him to suit up for Detroits second consecutive Thursday game.

St. Brown has been labeled week-to-week due to a low ankle sprain suffered against the Packers. NFL Medias Tom Pelissero reports that the 26-year-old receiver is not expected to require placement on injured reserve, which would mandate a minimum four-game absence. Additionally, the Lions have a mini-bye following Week 14, providing extra recovery time if needed.

Impact on Lions Receiving Corps

Detroit currently has six receivers on their 53-man roster, with only two fully healthy. While St. Brown is sidelined, Amon-Ras absence places a greater burden on Jameson Williams, who has recorded 706 yards and six touchdowns on 38 receptions this season. Rookie Isaac TeSlaa could also see expanded opportunities after scoring his second touchdown on Thanksgiving. His 6-4 frame and impressive catch radius make him a red-zone threat.

The Lions also have veteran Malik Cunningham and undrafted rookie Jackson Meeks on the practice squad, who could be called up if St. Brown misses time.

Author: Sophia Brooks