CINCINNATI – The Detroit Lions already knew they'd be without two fifths of their starting offensive line Sunday vs. the Bengals with center Travis Swanson (concussion) already ruled out and right guard T.J. Lang (foot) listed as doubtful.
The only question was going to be if they would or wouldn't they have the services of right tackle Rick Wagner, who's missed the last two games with an ankle injury and was questionable coming in.
It turns out the Lions will have to keep their playoff hopes alive without Wagner, as he joins Swanson and Lang among the Lions' starting offensive linemen inactive today.
Graham Glasgow will likely slide over from left guard to center and second-year guard Joe Dahl could start a second straight week at left guard. Corey Robinson likely fills Wagner's spot at right tackle and Don Barclay could slot into the right guard spot. Brian Mihalik could also be in the mix as well.
The Lions need to win their final two games of the season to keep pace for the NFC playoffs. Sunday, they'll have to do so without three starters upfront on offense.
Detroit placed receiver TJ Jones on IR this week after he suffered a season-ending shoulder injury last week vs. Chicago. The team has tapped the recently signed Andy Jones to fill his spot on the 46-man gameday roster.
Joining Wagner, Lang and Swanson on Detroit's inactive list today are: Running back Zach Zenner, running back Dwayne Washington, receiver Bradley Marquez and defensive tackle Rodney Coe.
