The NFC North was a mixed bag in Week 3. The Detroit Lions broke an impressive streak of futility against the Washington Redskins and the Chicago Bears weathered a valiant comeback attempt by the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. On the flip side, the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings both suffered ugly losses to AFC North foes that have fanbases of both teams wondering what fate the rest of the season holds.
NFL injuries 2013: Bears, Lions, Packers and Vikings all sustain losses
The NFC North went 2-2 in Week 3. Unfortunately, ever single team in the division potentially significant losses on the injury front.
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Unfortunately for the division, none of the four teams were able to escaped Week 3 without serious injuries. Here’s the rundown:
Chicago Bears
Franchise defensive tackle Henry Melton left Sunday night's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers after his knee buckled in nasty fashion. Melton had to be carted off the field, and Bears fans received bad news Monday: Melton is out for the season with a torn ACL.
Nate Collins is expected to start in Melton's place, with nose tackle Stephen Paea also rotating in at three-technique. Melton didn't start the season as well as many Chicago fans had hoped, but losing him will be a big blow to the Bears.
Detroit Lions
The Lions scored their first win in Washington D.C. in 74 years, but in the process they lost defensive end Jason Jones for the season due to a ruptured patellar tendon. The Lions' defensive line has been outstanding to start the season, with Jones' help. The team has signed defensive tackle Andre Fluellen to fill Jones' roster spot. Rookie defensive end Devin Taylor is expected to see more playing time in Jones absence.
Green Bay Packers
Not only did the Packers suffer a disheartening loss to the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, but several key players were forced to sideline. Tight end Jermichael Finley suffered a concussion that could put his Week 5 status in jeopardy. Running back James Starks left Sunday's game with a knee injury and did not return, likely putting rookie James Franklin in charge of the running game if Starks and Eddie Lacy are unavailable after the bye.
Clay Matthews also missed the second half with a hamstring injury, but he said after the loss that he should be fine for the Packers' Week 5 bout against the Lions.
Minnesota Vikings
Not only did the Vikings lose to a Trent Richardson-less, Brian Hoyer-led Cleveland Browns team, but they suffered several significant injuries in the secondary. According to the St. Paul Pioneer Press, defensive backs A.J. Jefferson (leg), Chris Cook (groin) and Jamarca Sanford (hamstring) will all be undergoing MRIs for injuries they suffered during the loss.
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