Lions Reportedly Sign Joique Bell Off Saints Practice Squad

Tim Twentyman, among others, is reporting that the Detroit Lions have decided to sign running back Joique Bell off of the New Orleans Saints practice squad. It's not clear right now who has been released or placed on injured reserve to make room for Bell.

This is a move many Lions fans have wanted to see for a while now. Bell played college football at Wayne State in Detroit and was considered a potential "hidden gem" type of player at running back after going undrafted.

During the 2010 season, Bell spent time with four different teams. He began the season on the Buffalo Bills practice squad before joining the Philadelphia Eagles active roster. The Eagles let him go in November and he was claimed off waivers a day later by the Indianapolis Colts. After they let him go, the Eagles signed him to their practice squad. Bell ultimately ended up on the Saints active roster after signing with them just before the playoffs.

This year, Bell started the season on the Saints active roster but was released and signed to the practice squad after two weeks. He had been on the practice squad ever since, but now he is headed to Detroit to play for the Lions.

UPDATE: Dave Birkett reports that Bell was signed to a two-year deal.