Lions rule out T.J. Lang against 49ers; Ziggy Ansah, LeGarrette Blount questionable

Allen Park — Last season, the Detroit Lions struggled to establish chemistry along the offensive line because of injuries. In all, the team started 10 different combinations. 

This year, it only took one game before the team had to shuffle the deck, once again. On Friday, the Lions ruled out right guard T.J. Lang, meaning the team will turn to a backup, likely veteran Kenny Wiggins, for Sunday's matchup with the 49ers. 

Lang has battled a slew of injuries since signing with Detroit last season. In 2017, he missed practice time with hip, foot, back and leg injuries, as well as a concussion. A lower leg injury limited him this training camp and he suffered a back injury late in Monday's loss to the New York Jets, which has sidelined him this week.

In addition to Lang, the Lions listed defensive end Ziggy Ansah and running back LeGarrette Blount as questionable, both with shoulder injuries. 

Ansah left the game against the Jets in the second quarter and was unable to return. On Friday, he would only say he was optimistic about playing against San Francisco.

The game against the Jets had to be stopped when Blount suffered a leg injury, but he showed up on Wednesday's practice report with the shoulder issue. He was a full participant during Thursday's practice, but was limited on Friday. 

If Blount can't go, it would likely mean a bigger role for rookie Kerryon Johnson, who had a handful of positive plays in limited action during his debut. 

jdrogers@detroitnews.com

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