Lions rule out Theo Riddick; Ziggy Ansah, T.J. Lang questionable

Allen Park — A month ago, Detroit Lions defensive end Ziggy Ansah expressed confidence he wouldn’t miss any time with the shoulder injury he suffered in the first quarter of the team’s season opener. But not only did he miss that week’s game, he’s been sidelined four straight.

Ansah had little to say about his lingering injury ahead of Sunday's game with the Dolphins, deferring to coach Matt Patricia, who also has been mum on Ansah’s status for the duration the player has been out. But the former Pro Bowler hinted at a possible setback, bringing up the word unprompted, when talking to reporters  Friday.

“I’m not surprised,” Ansah said, when asked if he felt it would be better if the team explained why he’s missed so much time. “We just don’t talk about injuries or anything. If anybody goes through a setback, all they and do is come here and work each day, try to improve upon what they’re (doing), just find a way to get back on the field.”

Ansah led the Lions with 12.0 sacks last season, and recorded one in the opener before a collision with teammate Devon Kennard left Ansah’s arm hanging limp. Ansah returned to the game for three more snaps in the second quarter, but was noticeably ineffective and shut down by the half.

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Ansah said Detroit’s bye week came at a good time and that he’s feeling “pretty good,” but wouldn’t tip his hand on whether he planned on playing against the Dolphins this Sunday.

“That will be coach’s decision,” Ansah said.

On the team’s official injury report, released Friday afternoon, Ansah is listed as questionable for the game. The same designation was given to guard T.J. Lang (concussion) and tight end Michael Roberts (knee).

The only player the team ruled out for Sunday is running back Theo Riddick, clearing the path for Ameer Abdullah to see his first offensive snaps of the season.

“Ameer, just in general, is an unbelievable teammate,” Patricia said. “He prepares extremely hard every single week. … He’s unbelievable with his preparation, his ability, his skill set. His improvement from the spring has been amazing," Patricia said. "A guy that really can also do a lot on special teams to help us, too.

"So, just a really great player that’s always prepared and ready to go. Whenever that opportunity comes up, I’m sure he’ll be ready to take full advantage of it.”

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For the Dolphins, the team formally ruled out quarterback Ryan Tannehill (shoulder), defensive end Charles Harris (calf) and defensive end Jonathan Woodard (concussion). Five players are questionable, including defensive end Cameron Wake (knee), safety T.J. McDonald (knee) and wide receiver DeVante Parker (quad).

jdrogers@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @Justin_Rogers