The Detroit Lions’ preseason opener against the Los Angeles Chargers wasn’t without its drama—or setback. While the team struggled on both sides of the ball during their 34-7 loss, one of the most concerning moments came when veteran swing tackle Dan Skipper exited the game with a low-ankle sprain. For a player and a position group that’s vital to the Lions’ success, the injury raises questions about depth, preparedness, and the road ahead as the team moves through the preseason schedule.
The Nature of Detroit Lions OL Dan Skipper’s Injury
During the Detroit Lions’ only touchdown drive of the game, running back Craig Reynolds scampered for a 10-yard gain. Unfortunately, that play came at a cost. According to reports, Dan Skipper suffered a low-ankle sprain while blocking on the play. While the initial diagnosis suggests the injury isn’t as severe as a high-ankle sprain, Skipper was seen sporting a walking boot after the game—a precautionary measure but one that underscores the seriousness of the situation.
Low-ankle sprains generally require less recovery time compared to their high-ankle counterparts. If the early evaluation holds, Skipper could return within a couple of weeks. That timeline, however, would still limit his availability for valuable preseason reps, leaving both the player and the Lions in a precarious spot.
Why Dan Skipper Is Vital to the Lions’ Depth
The Reliability of a Swing Tackle
Dan Skipper might not be a household name to casual NFL fans, but within the Lions organization, his role is incredibly significant. The 6’9” veteran is a quintessential swing tackle—a player versatile enough to play on either side of the offensive line. This flexibility is an invaluable asset, especially in a league where injuries can derail even the most well-constructed roster.
For Detroit, Skipper has been a reliable “first man off the bench” for years. When the starting tackles—Taylor Decker and Penei Sewell—need a breather or, worse, miss time due to injury, Skipper steps in and holds the line. His ability to adapt to different line positions and support the offense’s rhythm has been critical in maintaining continuity.
The Depth Dilemma
Offensive line depth is often the unsung hero of successful teams. With highly-paid stars like Decker and Sewell receiving most of the attention, depth players like Skipper often work in the shadows, ready to be called upon at a moment’s notice. But when a dependable depth piece goes down, the ripple effects can be substantial.
If Skipper’s absence lingers into the regular season, the Lions will face tough questions about their offensive line’s depth chart. Younger, less experienced players will need to step up, but expecting them to immediately replicate the stability Skipper provides is a tall order.
A Reminder of 2024’s Injury Woes
The Lions’ offensive line faced similar challenges last year. Injuries across the board forced reserves into action, disrupting the offensive rhythm and exposing vulnerabilities. Though the unit battled admirably, the strain was evident, particularly in matchups against elite defensive lines.
The 2025 season has long been framed as a turning point for the Lions—a chance to shake off decades of mediocrity and assert themselves as genuine playoff contenders. However, maintaining a healthy and cohesive offensive line is critical to sustaining that momentum. Losing a key depth piece like Skipper, even for a few weeks, could signal the return of the injury woes that plagued last season.
What This Means for the Lions Moving Forward
While the Lions may have dodged a serious bullet regarding Skipper’s injury, its timing is far from ideal. Preseason games are opportunities for fine-tuning, and Skipper’s absence takes away valuable reps that could help the Lions develop chemistry across the offensive line. However, it’s early enough in the preseason for Detroit to adapt and rebound.
Dan Skipper’s injury also serves as a reminder of the importance of depth—not just on the offensive line but across the roster. For a team with playoff aspirations, addressing depth concerns during the preseason is imperative. A single injury, as minor as it might seem now, can ripple through a team and expose weaknesses that become costly when the games begin to count.
Final Thoughts
Dan Skipper’s low-ankle sprain isn’t catastrophic, but it’s a wake-up call for a Lions team looking to make noise in the NFC North. His value as a swing tackle and depth contributor can’t be overstated, especially with the physical demands of an NFL season looming.
For Detroit, the focus now shifts to recovery, adjustments, and preparation. Skipper’s return will be eagerly anticipated, but until then, the offensive line must rally behind its next-man-up mentality. Ultimately, how the Lions handle this small hurdle could set the tone for how they tackle bigger challenges in the season ahead.
