Joique Bell Injury: Updates on Lions Star's Ankle, Achilles and Return

Detroit Lions running back Joique Bell missed the team's last three games due to ankle and Achilles injuries.

Continue for updates.

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Bell Active for Week 7

Sunday, Oct. 25

The Lions announced Bell is active to play against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.

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Latest on Bell's Practice Status Ahead of Week 7

Wednesday, Oct. 21

The Lions announced Bell was a full participant at practice.

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Bell Comments on Injuries, Return

Monday, Oct. 12

Bell told Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press he expects to play Sunday, adding he has an Achilles injury that's "holding him back" from playing.

On Oct. 9, Bell said his ankle has been flaring up after having surgery in March, adding he's been in pain all year, per Kyle Meinke of MLive Media Group.

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Impact of Bell's Injury on Lions Offense

The 29-year-old back has struggled even when on the field so far this season, as noted by Evan Silva of Rotoworld:   

Bell missed just one regular-season game over his first three seasons in the league. That came last year when he was forced to sit out a week because of a concussion. Otherwise he's been a highly reliable, durable backfield option for the Lions.

That said, he previously missed part of the team's preseason preparations as he worked his way back from offseason knee and Achilles procedures. The fact that his recovery carried into training camp raised some concerns heading toward the new campaign. 

The Lions have used a committee approach to replace Bell, with Ameer Abdullah, Theo Riddick and Zach Zenner all getting carries in Bell's absence. However, Zenner is out for the season with a rib injury, while Riddick was limited in practice this week with a groin injury.

Given his struggles, it's not guaranteed a key role will be waiting for Bell when he takes the field.