Alim McNeill’s performance has been a source of consternation for some after his return from his ACL tear. He didn’t quite look like the explosive player he had been prior. However, there are some really good signs so far this offseason.
Here is the excerpt regarding Alim McNeill from my Detroit Lions May 2026 Injury Updates: Part 2.
(Age at start of 2026 season in parentheses.)
Alim McNeill, DT (26)
December 2024 – ACL tear
October 2025 – Returned to game action…
Usually takes some time after ACL to get back to previous form, but wow Alim McNeill already is looking like he never left.
Already multiple pressures on Baker and a PBU. pic.twitter.com/NZSRBq19y7
— Jimmy Liao MD | Detroit Lions Morning Rounds (@JimmyLiaoMD) October 20, 2025
May 2026 – Posted on Instagram…
Alim McNeill
-December 2024: ACL
-October 2025: Returned to play in 10mo
-September 2026: Will be back to elite form in season opener vs Saints
-Still only 26yo (5/11/2000) pic.twitter.com/E5iFEFRM4X— Jimmy Liao MD | Detroit Lions Morning Rounds (@JimmyLiaoMD) May 17, 2026
2026 OUTLOOK: McNeill’s 2025 performance wasn’t up to his usual standards – an expected result in the first year back from an ACL. He should be fully back to his elite self in 2026.
For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a like. Follow Jimmy on X, @JimmyLiaoMD
This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Detroit Lions May 2026 Offseason Workout Medical Update: Alim McNeill