When the Lions took the practice field Wednesday in preparation for Sunday's game against the Vikings, a key figure was missing: No. 9.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford wasn't at practice during the brief portion that was open to the media, according to reports. That left backups Chase Daniel and David Blough to split reps.
Stafford played every snap in the Lions' loss to the Colts last weekend, during which he was sacked a season-high five times. He also bloodied his throwing hand in the fourth quarter.
The 32-year-old missed the final eight games of last season due to broken bones in his back. He also played through a broken back the year prior.
Lions LB Jarrad Davis tested positive for COVID-19 Tuesday, but Matt Patricia said before practice Wednesday that none of the team's other players "would not be able to practice because of JD."