The Steelers released middle linebacker Larry Foote today, ending speculation over what would happen with his career in Pittsburgh. News broke last week that he had been released, but we quickly found out that that was a bit premature. The news became that Foote was going to be released if the Steelers couldn't find a trading partner, and that obviously never happened since Foote is now a free agent. Whether or not the Lions sign him is left to be seen, but I see no reason for them not to. Right now the middle linebacker situation is less than ideal, and it's rare that free agents from Super Bowl teams want to play for the Lions. It would be very disappointing if Foote didn't become a Lion.
The Lions also made some moves today, one of which was releasing running back Brian Calhoun. This move is not surprising at all. Calhoun was a third-round pick back in 2006 and had a very disappointing career in Detroit. He was never healthy and didn't have a chance to show anything because of that. Now that the Lions have Kevin Smith, Maurice Morris, and draft pick Aaron Brown, this move was bound to happen eventually. Factor in Aveion Cason, who can returns kicks and play running back, and it is even less surprising. There is simply no room at RB for someone that can't stay healthy and has shown the team no reason to keep him around.
On top of releasing Calhoun, the Lions also got rid of wide receivers Travis Taylor and Steve Sanders. Defensive end Eric Hicks, who played under Gunther Cunningham in Kansas City, was signed by the Lions.