Bevell on playoffs: ‘You’re saying there’s a chance, right?’
During his Monday media session, Detroit Lions interim head coach Darrell Bevell provided an update on the health of injured quarterback Matthew Stafford.
“We’re going to use all the resources that we have at our disposal, which is we have the athletic training staff, we got doctors. And then obviously, he’ll have a big say in how he’s feeling,” Bevell said. “But, we’ll test, we’ll look at the test with our eyes. We’ll see how he’s performing. But, it’ll be just basically performance-based, and if he’s going to be able to function at a high enough level to perform well and to be able to protect himself.”
Bevell also noted that the X-rays that were taken on Stafford’s ribs came back negative.
In terms of Stafford playing on Sunday, it will be determined based on how the veteran passer feels toward the end of the week.
Slim playoff chances
Following Week 14 of NFL action, Detroit only has a one percent chance of making it into the postseason.
When made aware of those slim chances, Bevell provided a moment of levity, expressing, “You’re saying there’s a chance, right?”
He further explained, “This is an opportunity for all of us. Whether it’s going to be on this team, whether it’s another team, people are watching. They want to see how the Detroit Lions are going to react and if they’re just going to throw in the towel or if they’re going to keep fighting. And if I have anything to say about it or these players do, we’re going to keep fighting. And one percent, we’ll take it. I don’t even know if that’s right, but we’ll take it.”
Okudah on IR
Following a disappointing rookie campaign, it was confirmed on Monday that Jeff Okudah, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft will undergo groin surgery on Tuesday, effectively ending his first season in the NFL.
Despite the setback, Bevell believes Okudah will bounce back and be even more prepared for the grind of an NFL season a year from now.
“I think he’s going to have a bright future. It’s been a tough year for him. He’s kind of been in and out of the lineup a little bit with injuries. And that can happen with a young player,” Bevell said. “You’ve got to get your body used to this grind and this type of season that you have in the National Football League. I expect him to go out and get the surgery, come back with a renewed attitude and a renewed effort to get himself in shape, to get himself ready to play and (be) ready for this grind.”