The Sports Xchange

Detroit Lions running back Zach Zenner will be placed on injured reserve and miss the rest of the season after suffering cracked ribs and a partially collapsed lung in Sunday’s contest against the Chicago Bears.

Zenner was hospitalized after the injury and the Lions said he fractured four to five ribs on the play in which he was injured.

“Tough, rugged guy, but also very involved in our special teams and just a quality person, as well,” Detroit coach Jim Caldwell told reporters. “Had a chance to visit with him on the phone a little bit (Sunday night), and he’s certainly not only hurting physically but certainly hurting for the opportunity. But he’s a young guy and he’ll heal in due time.”

Zenner, an undrafted rookie out of South Dakota State, had 60 yards on 17 carries.