Lions rookie defensive end Ziggy Ansah is good to go for Sunday’s opener against the Vikings.
Ansah, who suffered a concussion on August 24, was a full participant in practice today and is listed as probable. Ansah’s concussion happened when he and a teammate accidentally collided in what was supposed to be a non-contact practice.
The No. 5 overall pick in this year’s NFL draft, Ansah is expected to start at right defensive end on Sunday, and his ability to bring pressure on Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder will be a key for the Lions’ defense. Before the concussion, Ansah was playing well in the preseason: He intercepted Mark Sanchez and returned the pick for a touchdown in the preseason opener against the Jets, and although he didn’t have any highlight reel plays in the second preseason game, Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Ansah actually improved overall in the second week of the preseason.
Two other defensive starters, safety Louis Delmas and defensive end Jason Jones, are also listed as probable on the Lions’ injury report. Both players are dealing with knee injuries but should be good to go on Sunday as well.