On December 26, head coach Dan Campbell annanouced that James Houston, a second-year pass rusher, was getting close to coming off injured reserve. This week, the team is getting ready to start Houston’s 21-day practice window. The next day, however, Campbell recanted his prediction, stating that he might need to wait at least a week before he can begin working out with teammates.

Lions Await James Houston’s Comeback

Campbell stated there was a “good chance” Houston was prepared to resume practice and have the organization open his 21-day practice window, which would allow him to rejoin the active roster, during his weekly radio interview on 97.1 The Ticket on Tuesday.

In an explanation on Wednesday, Campbell stated that Houston will not return from injured reserve until the last week of the season.

According to Pride of Detroit on X, Campbell stated, “We may, we may wait another week.”

After being placed on injured reserve after breaking his fibula in a Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, Houston has been out since then. Houston told reporters earlier in December that he was getting close to the finish of his rehabilitation and was being cautious.