Matthew Stafford Returns to Lions Practice, Haloti Ngata Placed on Injury Reserve

Anyone watching last Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers could tell Matthew Stafford wasn't playing at 100 per cent

Stafford had several opportunities to escape the pocket and run to freedom as he had when pressed in past games. Instead, he waited too long for a receiver to open up and wound up sacked.

Despite repeated efforts to beef up his offensive line and open the door for a run game, neither seemed that impressive Sunday.

Stafford was sacked six times for 37 yards. Meanwhile, a promising run offense finished the day with only 50 yards.

Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reported Stafford was reluctant to comment on his ankle. Head Coach Jim Caldwell also refused to comment on whether or not Stafford's injury, which was wrapped during the game, would need X-rays taken.

Stafford returned for a full practice today, though still listed on the injury report.

Though the Lions offense seems safe for now, the defensive line faces serious issues as DT Haloti Ngata joins injury reserve with a bicep injury.

Ngata exited the game Sunday during the first half.

Dantone Jones and Caraun Reid now join the Lions in hopes to fill the veteran's position on the line.