Detroit Lions: DE Jason Jones Expects to Play Soon

Despite undergoing minor knee surgery in June, Detroit Lions defensive end Jason Jones claims he’ll be ready by the regular season opener.

Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

When the Lions signed Jason Jones a few years ago, the history of his knee problems was already well-known. In 2012, prior to coming to the Motor City, Jones finished the year on injured reserve with the Seattle Seahawks after undergoing knee surgery that season.

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In his first year as a Lion, 2013, Jones would rupture the patellar tendon in his opposite knee and miss the final 13 games of the season. Then came 2014.

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Last season marked the first time in his career that he managed to play in all 16 games for any team. Now, at the age of 29, Jones is more important than ever to this Detroit Lions squad following the departure of the top three defensive tackles during the offseason.

As the Lions entered camp this week however, they once again found themselves without their defensive end. Jones on the other hand states that despite missing time during training camp, he’ll be ready for regular season play.

Via The Detroit Free Press:

"“Right now, it’s nothing major wrong, they’re just going to take the time and ease me back into things,” Jones said. “(There’s) no concern on my end of missing the season.”"

The return and good health of Jason Jones will be crucial to Detroit this season. Pro Bowl defensive tackle Haloti Ngata has already been placed on the non-football injury list with a strained hamstring, and was not present for earlier offseason workout as he spent time with his family.

With Jones slated to line up next to Ngata on the defensive line, the presence of at least one of these veterans is essential to the continued success of this squad.

"“It’ll be important for both (Haloti and I) to be out there together,” Jones said. “But I can’t wait to play with him, alongside of him, and I can’t wait to get out there with my teammates.”"

On the other side of Ngata will of course be a youngster no matter who wins the starting job between Caraun Reid and Tyrunn Walker. And at the other defensive end position will be Ziggy Ansah who is still relatively youthful himself.

There was quite a bit of debate as to whom would assume the leadership role on a line that experienced tremendous turnover — can Jones be that guy?

Nate Williams is an editor and columnist for FanSided and SideLionReport.com. For continued Detroit Lions news, rumors and analysis, be sure to give him a follow on twitter at @NateWilliamsFS as well as SLR at @SideLionReport!

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