Detroit Lions sign 10 players to futures deals
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions took care of housekeeping on the first day of the offseason, signing 10 players from their practice squad to futures deals. Any player not on the main roster for the season finale is eligible for these reserve/future contracts. See below for those signed to futures deals:WR Maurice AlexanderWR Tom KennedyRB Jermar JeffersonWR Stanley BerryhillOT Darrin PauloOT Obinna EzeCB Jarren WilliamsDT Demetrius TaylorS Brady BreezeS Khalil DorseyWe’ve got a Detroit Lions newsletter! We’ll email you your Detroit Lions news five days a week. Jefferson was elevated to the main roster for the finale but didn’t see the field in Year 2.
mlive.comRB Craig Reynolds activated from injured reserve, WR Tom Kennedy cut
Running back Craig Reynolds has been activated from injured reserve, and made the team flight to New York for Sunday’s game against the New York Jets. Reynolds opened the season as RB3 behind Jamaal Williams and D’Andre Swift, but missed the last five games with a knee injury. To make room on the roster for Reynolds, the Lions have cut Tom Kennedy. Kennedy has been a quality player while moving between the 53-man roster and practice squad over the years, and is a strong candidate to return to the practice squad next week. The Lions also announced they’re elevating quarterback Josh Dobbs and linebacker Jarrad Davis from the practice squad.
mlive.comLions’ red-hot defense officially getting back former sack leader Romeo Okwara
These are good days for the Detroit Lions’ long-lost pass rush -- and now they’re getting back their two-time sack leader too. Romeo Okwara has officially been cleared to suit up for the showdown against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday at Ford Field. They believed in Okwara, and wanted to build Detroit’s pass rush around him for the long term. Detroit is getting healthy for that push too, although did lose starting slot cornerback Will Harris to a mid-week hip injury. Mike Hughes is expected to replace Harris in the slot, while Jeff Okudah is active on the outside as expected.
mlive.comDetroit Lions storm back from 14-point deficit against Bears for second consecutive victory
The Detroit Lions stormed back from a double-digit fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Chicago Bears 31-30 for their second win in a row while snapping a 13-game road losing streak under head coach Dan Campbell.
Tom Kennedy was among the Lions’ final cuts. In Chicago, he was a hero.
CHICAGO -- Tom Kennedy goes all out, all the time. “There ain’t nothing else you could do,” head coach Dan Campbell told Kennedy while cutting him. And Kennedy delivered, sticking his foot in the ground on a crossing route and separating from cornerback Jaylon Johnson. And I thought Tom ran a great route, ran a great route. He ran a great route and made a great play.”It was perhaps the best play yet from a guy who has become the football version of a AAAA player.
mlive.comLions grades: Defense answers the call with inspired effort in win over Packers
DETROIT -- The Detroit Lions (2-6) beat the Green Bay Packers (3-6) 15-9, snapping their five-game winning streak with the Week 9 win from Ford Field. And while it wasn’t his best day, the running back ran 24 times for 81 yards against his former team. D’Andre Swift remained limited, running only twice for 10 yards and catching three of four targets for 40 yards. Grade: B-Wide receivers: Goff and his receivers never found their rhythm, failing to make much of an impact in this win. So, in the first game without T.J. Hockenson, Lions tight ends caught three of four targets for 9 yards and two touchdowns.
mlive.comJosh Reynolds out with third injury; D’Andre Swift, Brock Wright back for Lions
“At this point, this is the best he’s felt in a while,” the Detroit Lions head coach said on Friday. “That helps.”Less than a week later, Reynolds is out with yet another injury. Reynolds was limited by a back injury on Wednesday, then didn’t participate in practice at all on Thursday. The good news is running back D’Andre Swift returned to practice after getting another off day while tending to ankle and shoulder injuries. Tight end Brock Wright also returned to practice on Thursday, which provides more depth at that position following the Hockenson trade.
mlive.comWith nearly half their offense out, Lions are dressing 2 practice-squad receivers
Bench receivers Kalif Raymond and Quintez Cephus are both candidates to start against Seattle, while Detroit is also dressing two practice squad wideouts, Tom Kennedy and Maurice Alexander. Offensive tackle Dan Skipper and kicker Dominik Eberle are both dressing as well after signing with the 53-man roster on Saturday. He’s dressing in place of Shane Zylstra, who was released over the weekend to make way for the injury replacements. As for the Seahawks, they’re not dressing former Lions cornerback Justin Coleman. The rest of their inactives: Safety Joey Blount, guard Phil Haynes, defensive tackle Myles Adams, receiver Dareke Young, and cornerback Artie Burns.
mlive.comLive updates: Detroit Lions host new-look Seattle Seahawks in Week 4
DETROIT -- The Detroit Lions (1-2) host the Seattle Seahawks (1-2) in Week 4 action back at Ford Field. This post will update with drive summaries, analysis, injury updates, photos, pregame updates and more. Hit refresh to keep up and follow MLive’s Detroit Lions reporters on Twitter -- @BenjaminSRaven and @kmeinke. Also, head over to MLive’s Facebook account after the game for an in-depth breakdown. Related headlines and team stats:#Lions announce roster moves:Signed T Dan Skipper and K Dominik Eberle to the Active RosterElevated WR Tom Kennedy and WR Maurice Alexander from the Practice Squad to the Active/Inactive ListWaived TE Shane Zylstra and G Drew ForbesWR DJ Chark has been downgraded to Out — Detroit Lions (@Lions) October 1, 2022Lions stars Amon-Ra St. Brown, D’Andre Swift won’t play against SeattleSeahawks’ Quandre Diggs reflects on Detroit years before first game back in ‘special place’Lions vs. Seahawks: Fantasy guide and key matchups for Week 42022 TEAM STATSDVOA offensive ranking: Lions 7th | Seahawks 12thDVOA defensive ranking: Lions 22nd | Seahawks 30thNet yards gained per passing attempt: Lions 6.2 (15th) | Seahawks 6.1 (16th)Rushing yards per attempt: Lions 5.9 (1st) | Seahawks 4.0 (24th)Points per game: Lions 31.7 (2nd) | Seahawks 15.7 (29th)Points allowed per game: Lions 31.0 (32nd) | Seahawks 23.3 (21st)Net yards allowed per passing attempt: Lions 6.3 (18th) | Seahawks 7.8 (31st)Rushing yards allowed per attempt: Lions 5.0 (27th) | Seahawks 4.9 (22nd)Takeaways: Lions 2 | Seahawks 4
mlive.comHow to watch Lions vs. Seahawks: Live stream, TV channel, kickoff time
DETROIT -- The Detroit (1-2) face the Seattle Seahawks (1-2) in Week 4 action back at Ford Field. Detroit is what made me into who I am now.”Lions vs. Seahawks: Fantasy guide and key matchups for Week 4This post is a fantasy guide while running through matchups to watch, team stats and the series history. Detroit Lions trust their new-and-improved wide receiver depth if called upon“Chark and Cephus have got to step up and (Lions receiver Kalif Raymond) Leaf’s going to have a little bit bigger role. It was also the first time he cracked 80 rushing yards since Week 6 against the Lions in 2019. Dungeon of Doom: Blowing it in Minnesota, plus a chat with someone who scouted Amon-Ra St. BrownBETTING PREVIEWSSeahawks vs. Lions prediction, best bet and injury news for SundaySeahawks vs. Lions picks, odds and early betting preview for NFL Week 4FREE TO PLAY CONTESTSEnter our weekly contest: Make your Lions-Seahawks picks in the Prop Bet Showdown for a chance to win a prize
mlive.com‘Hard Knocks’ finale offers gripping look into Detroit Lions cuts
ALLEN PARK -- “Hard Knocks” might have had some misfires along the way. This is “Hard Knocks” at its best, humanizing a sport that can be so dehumanizing. -- One of the breakout stars of “Hard Knocks” was rookie linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez. “Hard Knocks” found an inventive way that I fully support: Go shopping for a cowboy outfit. -- “Hard Knocks” opened the season with a Dan Campbell speech that has to be seen to be believed.
mlive.comDetroit Lions waive RB Jermar Jefferson to make room for waiver claim
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have waived second-year running back Jermar Jefferson to make room for their waiver claim of defensive lineman Benito Jones. Jackson has since been added to the team’s practice squad. Related: Tom Kennedy headlines Detroit Lions practice squadJefferson was a seventh-round pick in last year’s draft. “I would say that position, man, all those running backs have really played at a high level,” Lions special teams coordinator Dave Fipp said last week. And I mean, there’s four guys in that group that to me, they can all play and contribute on special teams.
mlive.comLive tracker: Tom Kennedy headlines Detroit Lions practice squad
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have started assembling their practice squad with some familiar faces, including preseason juggernaut Tom Kennedy according to NFL Network. Kennedy won an unlikely roster spot last year after leading the team in receiving during the preseason. Yet Kennedy made another valiant run at it by catching 16 passes for 143 yards and two touchdowns, all team highs. That’s all he is.”The Lions can sign up to 16 players for the practice squad. That kind of thing is important to Campbell to help elevate the performances of other players in practice.
mlive.com‘Hard Knocks’ analysis: Good stuff from Detroit Lions cut week, but not perfect either
ALLEN PARK -- It’s cut week in the NFL, and for all the cool things “Hard Knocks” can do, it is times like these where a show like that can really shine. Let’s do it.”It’s not every day you actually hear a quarterback getting the hook. But we’re not going to find out anything about Craig we don’t already know.”While “Hard Knocks” did a good job showing some roster battles, it was hard not to notice how much else it ignored. Seems like there would be some built-in cache for the “Hard Knocks” folks to sell -- plus he’s obviously critically important to the Lions’ chances this year. “Good (expletive),” Campbell said.
mlive.comReport: Detroit Lions waiving cornerback Mark Gilbert amid flurry of cuts
ALLEN PARK -- Mark Gilbert, who appeared in eight games for the Detroit Lions last season, will be waived ahead of the league’s roster cut deadline. The cornerback initially landed with the Lions after they plucked him from Pittsburgh’s practice squad in the middle of last season. Parker, Mike Hughes, Bobby Price, Chase Lucas and Cedric Boswell at cornerback. Other reports indicated that the Lions would release cornerback Saivion Smith, receiver Kalil Pimpleton, linebacker Jarrad Davis, offensive lineman Kendall Lamm, tight end Devin Funchess and preseason star Tom Kennedy. Related headlines:Live tracker: Detroit Lions make first wave of cuts ahead of roster deadlineBen Raven’s final Detroit Lions 53-man roster projectionKyle Meinke’s final Detroit Lions 53-man roster projection: No backup QBs worth a spot
mlive.comTom Kennedy, the Lions’ leading receiver for a second straight preseason, among early cuts
ALLEN PARK -- Tom Kennedy, a preseason darling for the second straight season, is out in Detroit according to NFL Network. The move isn’t much of a surprise, although Kennedy did play himself onto the periphery of the bubble by leading the Lions in receiving during the preseason. Everything the Lions asked Kennedy to do, he did. “We’re trying to give him every opportunity to make this team,” Campbell said. The Lions could make five receivers work because St. Brown and Raymond can both play all the receiver spots.
mlive.comSnap counts: Lions get starters some run while taking close look at bubble players
The Detroit Lions needed to get most of their starters some run while taking one last look at bubble players in the preseason finale. And while it wasn’t that group’s best showing, it’s still an optimism-inducing sight to see those five together. Stenberg did himself a favor with strong showings in consecutive weeks while riding the roster bubble. Jackson was solid enough, with two attempts for 53 yards. Jermar Jefferson had a tough day, with six carries for 28 yards (with a long run of 27 yards).
mlive.comBen Raven’s final Detroit Lions 53-man roster projection
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions have until Tuesday afternoon to trim their roster to 53 players ahead of the new season. But he doesn’t compete with Trinity Benson’s contributions on special teams. Board is a solid option that could be a key special teams contributor if he gets bumped in the depth chart. “... well, there’s always a tie breaker, it’s going to be special teams,” Campbell said on Friday. “That’s the first, and I mean if it’s close at all, it needs to be somebody we know can help us on special teams.
mlive.comBubble watch: Tom Kennedy, Maurice Alexander, Justin Jackson vie for jobs in Lions’ preseason finale
PITTSBURGH -- The Detroit Lions will play most of their starters for about two quarters in the preseason finale on Sunday against the Steelers. But with cut-down day looming on Tuesday, the Lions also will be paying close attention to so many of their bubble players. Head coach Dan Campbell said this week 8-10 roster jobs remain competitive heading into the cut to 53 players. So now the Lions are giving him even more to see if he can carve out a big enough role to win a roster job. But Jackson has played his way onto the bubble, and could be threatening Jefferson’s spot on the team.
mlive.comAsk Kyle: A deeper look at the Detroit Lions’ roster bubble heading into cut day
The Lions are tinkering with Kennedy as a gunner right now, trying to find a way to justify keeping him. That guy gave up professional lacrosse to try out with the Lions, and he’s still here four years later for a reason. If the Lions believe he’s healthy, he’s making this team, period. Q: Considering the team is more talented than last year, do you think Lions are in a position to trade anyone prior to cuts for draft capital? -- @pfnnewmediaA: I don’t know if any Lions player is straddling the roster bubble quite like Logan Stenberg.
mlive.comLions hold rare player-led practice without coaches: ‘We know what to do and how to do it’
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions opened their week in strange fashion, with players leading practice and head coach Dan Campbell quietly patrolling the sidelines. “Well, he told us this morning that the players were gonna go out there and run their own practice,” Lions left tackle Taylor Decker said. But we shouldn’t need them out here to be able to get good work in. The 28-year-old said this player-led practice speaks volumes to that belief, saying it proves the level of trust between coaches and the players, not to mention between teammates. Get your body moving because tomorrow is going to be a good work day for us.
mlive.comLions’ Dan Campbell: 8-10 roster jobs remain up for grabs heading into final week before cuts
The back end of the roster is so much better, which has led to some intense job battles in camp, some of which remain undecided heading into the final week. Campbell estimates 8-10 spots remain up for grabs heading into the preseason finale on Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers. “(Cuts are) going to be tough,” Campbell said. “We’re trying to give him every opportunity to make this team,” Campbell said. Campbell said Boyle likely will get the nod under center with the starters in Pittsburgh, but that call is not yet final.
mlive.comLions QB David Blough heads into crucial preseason finale after up-and-down showing
ALLEN PARK -- David Blough earned the starting nod in the second preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts, with an opportunity to make his case as the Detroit Lions backup quarterback. Blough put some good tape into existence before ceding to Tim Boyle in the second half. He had a turnover for the second consecutive week when he tried to force one to a tightly-covered Kennedy. But the door was open for Blough, and instead, the battle heads into a crucial preseason finale in Pittsburgh. “I thought Tim Boyle had a good half too,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell said after the game.
mlive.comDetroit Lions roster projection 2.0: Why Tom Kennedy is still on the wrong side of the bubble
INDIANAPOLIS -- Tom Kennedy was the leading receiving in the NFL in the first week of the preseason. Then he caught two touchdown passes the following week, leading the Detroit Lions to a 27-26 win on Saturday afternoon against the Colts. He threw a touchdown pass to Tom Kennedy right before halftime, and completed three straight passes on third-and-long on the drive. The roster is simply better this year, and the Lions could actually use the extra roster spot somewhere else. I know the staff has been really impressed with John Cominsky since acquiring him via waiver claim this year, and I think he’s in.
mlive.comStock report: Lions’ Maurice Alexander makes most of chances returning kicks
That didn’t matter against the Indianapolis Colts in the second game of the preseason, though, with Alexander enjoying a big day returning kicks. And look forward to making the 53-man roster.”WR Tom KennedySorry, this isn’t meant to be repetitive, but it’s impossible to leave Tom Kennedy off this side of the list. One week after catching eight balls for 104 yards, Kennedy did it another way, with five catches for 24 yards and two touchdowns. Teammate Austin Bryant said, “he’s been a force inside and out,” while adding that is “strong as an ox.”DE Austin BryantSame deal as Tom Kennedy. After a forgetful start to camp and a ho-hum first preseason game, this was a step in the right direction.
mlive.comDetroit Lions giving red-hot Tom Kennedy ‘every opportunity to make this team’
INDIANAPOLIS -- Tom Kennedy is a man of very few words. That’s OK. His head coach needed only one to describe him after he racked up a league-high 103 receiving yards last week in the preseason opener. “Dependable,” Detorit Lions head coach Dan Campbell said. “That’s all. That’s all he is.”A touchdown to end the half!#DETvsIND | 📺 Lions TV Network pic.twitter.com/lAQ4vhz1Zs — Detroit Lions (@Lions) August 20, 2022
mlive.comInstant observations: Jeff Okudah, offensive line shine as Lions rest starters in win against Colts
INDIANAPOLIS -- Dan Campbell finally got his first exhibition win as the Detroit Lions’ head coach, a 27-26 victory on Saturday afternoon against the Colts. Former third overall pick Jeff Okudah, for example, started at cornerback and played most of the first half. Kennedy has lived on the roster bubble since the day he gave up professional lacrosse to try out for the Lions. He gets under guys, he plays with really good leverage, he’s strong, he’s stout, he’s got a quick first step. The Lions know what they have in those guys, and those guys got in the work they needed this week.
mlive.comPlayers to watch in Detroit Lions’ preseason game against Indianapolis Colts
INDIANAPOLIS -- Dan Campbell was plain about what he wanted to accomplish this week during two joint practices with the Colts. “Getting them really good work, and see if we can get better in those units. After getting in so much good work this week, Campbell said he intends to sit a lot of his regulars for tonight’s preseason game against the Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. And there’ll be a number of guys that have gotten the load here that will still play in this game. With all that said, it’s going to be really interesting to see how Detroit handles Okudah’s workload against the Colts.
mlive.comStock report: Lions WR Tom Kennedy again proves to be ‘Mr. Dependable’ in preseason
DETROIT -- Welcome to another preseason where Detroit Lions wide receiver Tom Kennedy’s stock is trending up after the first game. And Lions head coach Dan Campbell isn’t surprised to see him trending in the right direction this time of year. Kennedy made plays when the Lions needed it most, with both backup quarterbacks looking his way more times than not. But then he caught all four targets for 19 yards and one touchdown against the Falcons. It was Cedric Boswell and Falcons receiver Jared Bernhardt in a one-on-one in the end zone on that fourth-and-9 desperation heave.
mlive.comDetroit Lions tender 13 exclusive-rights free agents, including record-setting punter Jack Fox
The record-setting punter was among 13 exclusive-rights free agents who were tendered by the Lions on Wednesday afternoon. If any of the players practice well enough to make the team, cool, Detroit is better off for it. And if any of them isn’t good enough to make the team, the Lions can move on without financial penalty. Offensive lineman Ryan McCollum and defensive back Jalen Elliott were the only exclusive-rights free agents Detroit did not tender. Wright was pressed into starting duty as an undrafted rookie because of all the injuries at tight end, and caught two touchdown passes.
mlive.comDouble proxy weddings: Getting hitched in Montana without being there
A quirky Montana law allows residents or active service members to get married without even setting foot in the state. Now, double proxy weddings - where two stand-ins say "I do" on behalf of absent couples - have become a big business.
cbsnews.comRookie sensation Amon-Ra St. Brown sets more records, also fools Packers on two huge trick plays
And it all hinged on Amon-Ra St. Brown, Detroit’s rookie sensation. St. Brown finished his rookie season with 90 catches for 912 yards, both club records for a rookie, and accounted for six touchdowns. But the book on St. Brown is he’s just as good without the football in his hands. Some more Week 18 trickeration 😉#GBvsDET | 📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/MciiuMEugO — Detroit Lions (@Lions) January 9, 2022Not every day you see a reverse flea-flicker to the blocking tight end, you know? You’re gonna get the best of the best of us, we ain’t holding nothing back, and we’re going to play ball.
mlive.comHalftime analysis: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Detroit Lions emptying playbook in memorable finale
Tom Kennedy, a receiver, threw the longest touchdown pass by any wideout in the NFL since 1992. Amon-Ra St. Brown, also a receiver, lined up at quarterback for a direct snap. But St. Brown hasn’t quit his day job either, catching another touchdown pass -- because of course he did -- to help the Lions build a surprising 17-13 halftime lead while emptying out their playbook on Sunday against Green Bay at Ford Field. And his breakout rookie rewarded him with a huge touchdown catch, giving Detroit a 14-7 lead late in the half. There has never been a more productive rookie receiver in the history of this franchise.
mlive.comDan Campbell feeling encouraged, not discouraged, by QB Tim Boyle’s third start for Detroit Lions
ALLEN PARK -- Dan Campbell is well aware that Detroit Lions quarterback Tim Boyle has six interceptions through three starts, including three thrown during the 51-29 loss in Seattle over the weekend. Campbell credited Boyle for running the offense through all the kills and checks in the plan, crediting him for his communication. Thought he read coverages pretty good,” Campbell said Monday afternoon. I think there’s some good things in there. I think he’s a quick thinker and I think he’s going to learn from this and be better for it.”Related headlines:Lions’ Amon-Ra St. Brown knows the 16 teams that took a receiver before him.
mlive.comDetroit Lions sign WR Tom Kennedy from their practice squad, waive DL Kevin Strong
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions announced a series of roster moves ahead of Sunday’s game in Cleveland, signing receiver Tom Kennedy from their practice squad and waiving defensive lineman Kevin Strong. Detroit also elevated kicker Aldrick Rosas and interior offensive lineman Tommy Kraemer from its practice squad. The elevation of Rosas is interesting because the Lions signed kicker Riley Patterson from New England’s practice squad, meaning he’ll be on the 53-man for at least the next three games. He’s appeared in only one game this year, logging 24 defensive snaps in the opener. The former undrafted free agent has, at times, bounced between the roster and practice squad over the last three years.
mlive.comDetroit Lions sign safety Jalen Elliott from their practice squad
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions filled their open roster spot, signing safety Jalen Elliott from the practice squad to the 53-man. Elliott, much like Wright, has seen action in two consecutive games after getting elevated from the practice squad. He first landed with the Lions as an undrafted free agent out of Notre Dame in 2020, spending most of the past year on the practice squad. Elliott joins Walker, Harris, Marlowe and C.J. The Lions also signed tight end Nick Eubanks and wide receiver Travis Jonsen to their practice squad.
mlive.comDetroit Lions waive WR Tom Kennedy, sign TE Brock Wright from practice squad
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions waived wide receiver Tom Kennedy and tight end Darren Fells, signing tight end Brock Wright from their practice squad, leaving one open roster spot. Fells’ departure was previously reported, with Lions coach Dan Campbell confirming the move to release the veteran was a mutual one. T.J. Hockenson and Wright are the team’s only two tight ends, with Shane Zylstra on the practice squad. Wright has seen action in two consecutive games, getting activated from the practice squad for the trip to Los Angeles and blowout loss to the Eagles heading into the bye week. The former Lacrosse pro has spent most of the last three years on Detroit’s practice squad, with one game appearance logged back in 2019 to his name before this season.
mlive.comSnap counts: Lions WR KhaDarel Hodge draws first start as shuffling continues at receiver
DETROIT -- Detroit Lions receiver KhaDarel Hodge got the first start after Quintez Cephus went down, with the team shuffling things around out wide in Week 6. The Lions lost 34-11 to the Cincinnati Bengals, coming out of the weekend as the NFL’s last remaining winless team. Kalif Raymond led the receivers with 56 of 63 snaps, catching six of seven targets for 37 yards. Amon-Ra St. Brown was next in line with 49 plays, catching five passes for 26 yards. D’Andre Swift was on for 49 plays, running 13 times for 24 yards and one touchdown, adding five catches for 43 yards.
mlive.comShort-handed Lions expect to activate former lacrosse pro Tom Kennedy at receiver
Just like at cornerback and left tackle, the Lions are already turning to the next man up at that position. “Kennedy, I believe he’s going to play this week,” offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn said. Kennedy is a former lacrosse pro who first joined the Lions back in 2019. We trust Tom Kennedy.”Kennedy was inactive for the opener, but the Williams injury could propel him into the lineup as Detroit looks for answers at receiver on Monday Night Football. The Williams injury thrust him onto the field in the third quarter, and he caught three of the six balls thrown his way for 19 yards.
mlive.comEx-Lions WR Breshad Perriman reportedly signing with Chicago Bears to stay in NFC North
ALLEN PARK -- Breshad Perriman has reportedly found a new home, one that will allow him to play the team that cut him before the season twice, signing a one-year deal with the Chicago Bears per ESPN. Perriman signed with the Detroit Lions in free agency, with nearly all of his $2.5 million salary guaranteed. The Lions then kept six receivers on their initial 53-man roster, trading for Trinity Benson, keeping former lacrosse pro and offseason standout Tom Kennedy. Chicago’s receiver room is headlined by Allen Robinson and Darnell Mooney, with Rodney Adams, Damiere Bryd and Marquise Goodwin also making the 53-man roster. The Bears also claimed receiver Nsimba Webster off waivers via the San Francisco 49ers on Tuesday.
mlive.comDetroit Lions roster analysis: Who’s in, who’s out and what’s next for the 53-man squad
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions announced one of the most unusual 53-man rosters in the league on Tuesday, opting to go with no kickers at all. Here’s a breakdown of who’s in, who’s out and what’s next for this squad in the coming days. That’s a dramatic position change, and the Lions gave him very little time to prepare his mind and body for it. Secondary (10)In: CB Jeff Okudah, CB Amani Oruwariye, CB Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB A.J. Parker, CB Jerry Jacobs, S/CB Bobby Price, S Tracy Walker, S Will Harris, S Dean Marlowe, S C.J.
mlive.comEx-lacrosse pro Tom Kennedy has ‘inside track’ on Detroit Lions roster spot
ALLEN PARK -- Breshad Perriman was guaranteed a lot of money to play receiver for the Detroit Lions. But he didn’t produce in training camp, made crucial mistakes in the preseason and was cut despite the financial commitment. “We’ll find out, but I think he has an inside track to be here,” head coach Dan Campbell said. You give guys opportunities.”While Perriman bungled his opportunities, Kennedy made the most of his. It gave us a chance to see those other guys.”In the end, Kennedy has survived the first wave of cuts.
mlive.comSnap counts: LB Anthony Pittman leads defense, special teams in reps to end preseason
DETROIT -- The final preseason game is all about getting closer looks at players on the roster bubble, with the Detroit Lions taking a long look at linebacker Anthony Pittman in the exhibition finale. Pittman, the Detroit native and former Wayne State standout, led the defense (43) and special teams (14) in snaps in the team’s 27-17 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Pittman is battling fellow inside linebackers Jahlani Tavai, Jalen Reeves-Maybin and Tavante Beckett for work. He said, ‘coach, I feel like inside is where I belong.’ So, we moved him inside and he’s just been doing this. Had the Lions seen enough from the preseason standout or were they trying to get other bodies some looks?
mlive.comKyle Meinke’s final Detroit Lions 53-man roster projection
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions went winless in the preseason, capped off with a 27-17 loss on Friday night to the Indianapolis Colts. Secondary (10)In: CB Jeff Okudah, CB Amani Oruwariye, CB Mike Ford, CB Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB Corn Elder, CB A.J. Parker, S Tracy Walker, S Will Harris, S Dean Marlowe, S C.J. I have no idea what to make of the Lions benching Randy Bullock for Zane Gonzalez in the preseason finale. Perhaps Bullock had already locked in the job, and Detroit just didn’t want to risk injury or whatever.
mlive.com5 bubble players to watch in Detroit Lions’ preseason finale against Colts
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions wrap up the preseason on Friday night against the Indianapolis Colts at Ford Field. The Lions have given him quality opportunities throughout the offseason to prove he belongs, and Tavai just hasn’t been able to do it. And a week later, “Netflix” scored again. Until the Lions called, he scored in each of their first two exhibitions and now leads them in rushing heading into the finale. Kennedy leads the Lions in receiving during the preseason, although his limitations on special teams could hurt his chances.
mlive.comReceiver job remains up for grabs heading into Lions’ preseason finale against Colts
Needless to say, they’ve already seen enough to settle most roster spots before the preseason finale on Friday night against the Indianapolis Colts. “We’re looking for guys that, 1) can separate, 2) make the plays that are there,” head coach Dan Campbell said. But ...“Special teams is going to play a big role,” offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn said. “I’ll tell you what, special teams, when you start getting to No. “Because we need to have a good special teams unit, so that’s what we’re looking for.”
mlive.comFormer lacrosse pro Tom Kennedy making push for Detroit Lions roster job
ALLEN PARK -- Tom Kennedy isn’t especially fast. “I like Tom,” Campbell said. We trust Tom Kennedy right now.”It’s easy to understand why too. He makes plays. When we need a play, he makes plays and he has just shown up.
mlive.comDetroit Lions 53-man roster projection 2.0
ALLEN PARK -- The preseason doesn’t matter, which is refreshing news for the winless Detroit Lions. With that said, here’s our second projection of where the roster stands heading into the final preseason game on Friday against Indianapolis. The Lions have to get their 85-man roster down to 80 players by 4 p.m. Tuesday, before the final cut to 53 on Aug. 31. And with depth still an issue at so many positions, it’s not like Detroit really needs the roster spot elsewhere anyway. Secondary (10)In: CB Jeff Okudah, CB Amani Oruwariye, CB Mike Ford, CB Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB Nickell Robey-Coleman, CB A.J.
mlive.comSnap counts: Detroit Lions get good look at reserve OL in preseason loss to Steelers
The Detroit Lions rested several veterans and starters in their 26-20 preseason loss in Pittsburgh against the Steelers, with the team getting a good, long look at the reserve offensive line. Matt Nelson, Jonah Jackson, Evan Brown, Halapoulivaati Vaitai and Penei Sewell were the first-team group, with Brown and Nelson playing all 61 offensive snaps. Amon-Ra St. Brown was limited to 11 snaps, opening the door for more bodies to see action. Damion Ratley was back in action too, seeing one target on 11 snaps. He completed seven of 15 passes for only 44 yards on 25 snaps under center.
mlive.comStock report: Who’s trending up, who’s not after Detroit’s sloppy preseason loss in Pittsburgh
The Detroit Lions lost 26-20 to the Pittsburgh Steelers in their second preseason game, despite trailing 23-0 at the start of the fourth quarter. Trending upDetroit Lions linebacker Derrick Barnes talks to reporters after the team's NFL preseason football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021, in Pittsburgh. He’s the truth, without a doubt.”Detroit Lions quarterback David Blough (10) warms up before an NFL preseason football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021, in Pittsburgh. Detroit Lions running back Craig Reynolds (46) runs past Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Marcus Allen (27) during the second half of an NFL preseason football game, Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021, in Pittsburgh. Detroit Lions quarterback Tim Boyle (12) throws a pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half of an NFL preseason football game Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021, in Pittsburgh.
mlive.comDonald Trump Jr., Kid Rock draw crowd at rally in Harrison Township
HARRISON TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Many people attended the rally featuring Donald Trump Jr. and Kid Rock in Harrison Township. “It’s great to be back in Michigan and we are going to win Michigan," Trump Jr. said. Kid Rock did a mini concert right after. On his Instagram, Kid Rock said he’s struggled with neck issues for years and showed a picture of himself getting a cortisone shot. But he said he would not miss the rally with Trump Jr. because of his commitment to re-elect the president.
Detroit Lions Week 1: Breaking down the roster after preseason
The Browns defeated theOver the weekend, the Lions made their final roster cuts to get to the NFL's mandated 53-man roster. As part of the process, some players were cut but added to the Lions' practice squad. Another surprising move here: the Lions traded for Blough after playing the Browns in the last preseason game. He suffered a concussion in the first preseason game, missed the next two games and didn't play well in the fourth preseason game, leading the Lions to cut him. Drafted in the seventh round of this year's draft, Nauta didn't do enough during the preseason to crack the roster.
Detroit Lions announce final roster cuts
The Detroit Lions announced today the following roster moves to establish the team's 53-man roster by the League-mandated 4 p.m. ET deadline:RELEASED:CB Johnathan AlstonDT John AtkinsLB Malik CarneyTE Jerome CunninghamT Andrew DonnalLB Garret DooleyWR Jonathan DuhartDT P.J. JohnsonDT Fredrick JonesWR Tom KennedyC Leo KoloamatangiLB Steven LongaTE Isaac NautaT Matt NelsonQB Luis PerezLB Anthony PittmanWR Brandon PowellQB Tom SavageDT Ray SmithRB Justin StocktonCB Teez TaborRB Mark ThompsonTE Austin TraylorS Charles WashingtonDE Jonathan WynnWAIVED/INJURED:WR Andy JonesCopyright 2019 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit - All rights reserved.