As the start of the 2022 season nears, the Detroit Lions will be without right guard Halapoulivaati Vaitai for at least four games.
It’s now less than a week before the Detroit Lions open their 2022 season against the Philadelphia Eagles. And they will be down a starter.
According to the team website, right guard Halapoulivaati Vaitai has been placed on IR with an undisclosed injury. In a corresponding move, the Lions were awarded guard Drew Forbes off waivers from the Cleveland Browns.
The Lions never had their starting five offensive lineman on the field for a snap together last season. It’ll be until at least Week 5 this season now, as Vaitai will miss at least the first four games.
Vaitai exited practice a few weeks ago with an undisclosed injury, but he was back for the joint practices against the Indianapolis Colts later that week without apparent issue. He played all 29 snaps with the other offensive line starters in the preseason finale against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
By overall Pro Football Focus grade Vaitai showed well in the preseason opener against the Falcons (91.8) and against the Steelers (81.8). (h/t to Pride of Detroit). The Lions rested starters in the second preseason game against the Colts.
More recently, Vaitai was not seen during the open portion of last Thursday’s practice. Turns out that was notable.
How will the Lions replace Halapoulivaati Vaitai?
To take Vaitai’s place, the Lions have some options.
Logan Stenberg earned a roster spot with a stellar last two preseason games. Tommy Kraemer was another solid find as a undrafted rookie last year, and he’s a versatile depth piece. Stenberg is primarily a left guard, but he’s in the conversation to step in for Vaitai.
Evan Brown stepped in capably last season at center after Frank Ragnow was injured. He could move over and fill in for Vaitai now.
Forbes is taking Vatai’s spot on the 53-man roster. But he’s not very experienced and is just a depth option for as long as he’s needed.