Detroit Lions lose top passer Romeo Okwara for season to torn Achilles

DETROIT, Mich. – Detroit Lions leading passer Romeo Okwara will be missing the remainder of the season with an Achilles tendon tear, coach Dan Campbell confirmed Monday.

The outside linebacker limped off the turf at Soldier Field in the first quarter of Detroit’s 24-14 loss to the Chicago Bears on Sunday with the season-ending injury. It was initially deemed doubtful to return with an ankle, but was later demoted once the severity of the injury was discovered.

“I hate it for Romes, man. I’ll tell you what, the way he works and everything he went into. He’s a top pro and I hate it for him,” Campbell said. “And I hate it for our team, but I know he will come back better than ever next year.”

Okwara has six total tackles with a sack and a gimmick this season. In 2020, he led the team with 10 sacks.

His injury is another big blow to the franchise, associated with the team’s 0-4 start. Former No.3 draft pick Jeff Okudah suffered a season-ending Achilles tear in Week 1 of the season.

Campbell said the team will now have to rely on young players to bolster their defense.

“Fortunately, we still have a lot of young guys here who are still online and who we have a lot of trust, a lot of hope,” said Campbell. “We know they are going to grow and we think they can become very good players over time.”

Also on Sunday, center Frank Ragnow suffered a version of the turf toe in the loss, according to Campbell, and “is likely going to be out” for a while.