Amon-Ra St. Brown explains why Lions injuries can be blessing in disguise

Amon-Ra St. Brown is one of many hobbled Detroit Lions heading into Week 3. Some will be out, meaning others must step up.

The Lions have lost defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson as well as edge James Houston to IR. They also have injuries at running back (David Montgomery) and along the offensive line (Taylor Decker, Halapoulivaati Vaitai).

As St. Brown explained on his The 33rd Team podcast, there's now a big opportunity for others to step up

"I think we have a lot of depth, more than we did in the past when I was a rookie. Each year our roster gotten better, so we got guys I think that can step in right away and play. I'm excited for them because I know for me when I was a rookie, I played my rookie year but I didn't really get going (until) toward the second half of the season. This is an opportunity for guys to step up, make plays, make a name for themselves. I'm always excited for those guys. Obviously, you hate to see injuries, but to see those guys get a shot is always super nice."

Amon-Ra St. Brown breaks down Week 3 matchup vs. Atlanta Falcons

St. Brown returned to practice Thursday after missing Wednesday with a toe injury, but it remains to be seen if he will play on Sunday against the Falcons.

Regardless, St. Brown understands the test Atlanta's defense brings, as they are currently third in yards allowed (252.5 per game). He hopes the home crowd helps the Lions.

"Their defensive backs can play. I was watching A.J. Terrell, really good player. They got that new safety Jessie Bates, he had (two) picks in the first game so we're definitely going to have to be locked in. It's going to be a good defense. I'm excited just to be back home. Hopefully our fans show out like they did last game."

All eyes will be on the status of St. Brown, and others, when Friday's injury report comes. But there will be players who can step into the place of whoever is out.