Brandon Pettigrew Injury: Updates on Lions Star's Knee and Return

Detroit Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew exited Week 14's matchup against the St. Louis Rams with a knee injury that has ended his season.  

Continue for updates.

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Pettigrew Diagnosed with Torn ACL

Monday, Dec. 14

Head coach Jim Caldwell told reporters Pettigrew's season is over after testing revealed the tear, adding it's the tight end's third torn ACL in his career. Tim Twentyman of the Detroit Lions noted Pettigrew tore the same ACL during his rookie season in 2009.

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Pettigrew's Injury Puts Lions' TE Situation in Flux

Pettigrew missed four games at the beginning of the season due to hamstring and knee injuries. In addition to being a capable pass-catcher, the 30-year-old veteran is a solid blocker whose absence further hampers Detroit's perpetually sputtering rushing attack.

If the Lions can't find better offensive balance, they can't expect sustained success—even with a gifted passer in Matthew Stafford under center. Last year's first-round pick, Eric Ebron, is a tantalizing talent at Pettigrew's position, but he's far from a finished all-around product.

Tim Wright is the next man up at tight end and is a solid, underrated player who has racked up 11 touchdown receptions over the past two seasons. If Ebron doesn't prove himself soon, perhaps Wright will be atop the depth chart to stay.