Detroit Lions star running back D’Andre Swift is expected to play Sunday against the Washington Commanders despite an ankle injury, with a league source emphasizing he’s “good to go,” according to a league source.
The injury is not regarded as major.
“He’s going to be ready,” a source predicted. “He’s good.”
Despite scare, Swift should be ready for Sunday
Swift is coming off a career-high 144 rushing yards on 15 carries against the Philadelphia Eagles.
When Swift didn’t practice Wednesday, concern was immediately expressed about whether he would be limited or potentially unavailable Sunday. A source said Thursday, though, that Swift is feeling good and trending in the right direction.
Swift limped after running a pattern out of the backfield during the Lions’ loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. In that game, he rushed for a career-high 144 yards on 15 carries.
If Swift suffers a setback, keep your eyes on Jamaal Williams, who is Swift’s backup. The team promoted Justin Jackson from the practice squad to the active roster, but he is primarily a return man at this point.
The Lions also have hard-running Craig Reynolds as another option. Reynolds was featured on Hard Knocks.
Swift had 18 total touches for 175 yards of total offense and one touchdown against Philadelphia.
Star power with Swift
Swift, regarded as one of the most elusive runners in the game, is a former second-round draft pick from Georgia.
Swift (5-foot-9, 211 pounds), has rushed for 1,282 career yards and 14 touchdowns with 111 catches for 840 yards and four scores.
Swift has run the 40-yard dash in 4.48 seconds and has the speed and moves to go the distance.
Signed to a four-year, $8.5 million rookie contract, Swift split time as a rookie with Adrian Peterson and Kerryon Johnson. He had 521 yards and eight touchdown runs and 46 catches for 357 yards and two scores in 13 games.
Last season, Swift was again limited to 13 games.
He was more productive, though, as he gained 617 yards and scored five times. He caught 62 passes for 452 yards and two scores.
If the Lions can get a full, productive season out of Swift, they can accelerate their rebuild and become more competitive under coach Dan Campbell’s direction.