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Lions place Onwuzurike on IR; promote two off practice squad for opener

Allen Park — Sidelined more than five weeks with a back injury, the Detroit Lions conceded Levi Onwuzurike's isn't going to be ready anytime soon. On Saturday, the team placed the second-year defensive lineman on injured reserve, a day before the regular season opener.

Onwuzurike has been out of action since Aug. 1, suffering his injury during Detroit's first padded practice of training camp. Two weeks ago, coach Dan Campbell noted the player was making steady progress in his rehab, but was healing slower than anticipated.

"He’s trending the right way, but it’s at a snail’s pace, is the best way to say it," Campbell said.