Theo Riddick Injury: Updates on Lions RB's Ankle and Return

Joseph Zucker @@JosephZuckerFeatured Columnist

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - SEPTEMBER 11: Theo Riddick #25 of the Detroit Lions runs with the ball in the second quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 11, 2016 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

Dylan Buell/Getty Images

Detroit Lions running back Theo Riddick was dealing with a lingering ankle injury. However, he has been cleared to return.

Continue for updates.

Riddick Active vs. Vikings

Thursday, Nov. 24

The Lions announced that Riddick will play in Week 12 against the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday.

Latest on Riddick's Practice Status

Wednesday, Nov. 23

The Lions announced that Riddick has been a limited participant in practice all week.

Ankle Problems Won't Go Away for Riddick

Ankle injuries have lingered for Riddick over the last month, starting with missing games in Weeks 6 and 7. He did return in Week 8 and was effective in his first two games back with 209 total yards and one receiving touchdown.

Link to Media

Riddick has been a dynamic player in the Lions offense over the last two seasons. He had 123 touches (80 receptions) in 2015 and had 122 touches this season prior to the injury, including a career-high 79 carries.

Depth at running back has been a problem for the Lions in 2016. Ameer Abdullah has missed the last eight games with a foot injury, though it's unclear if or when he will be activated off injured reserve, per ESPN.com's Michael Rothstein.

The Lions need Riddick to remain in the lineup and healthy to keep their offense operating at a high level.