Detroit Lions Sign Safety Erik Coleman

Although most player movement is at a standstill right now with the collective bargaining agreement set to expire in two weeks, teams can sign players that were made free agents by being released. Players set to become free agents can't go anywhere for the time being, but players that hit the open market after being cut are able to sign deals until the CBA expires.

Taking advantage of this while they still can, the Detroit Lions have signed free agent safety Erik Coleman to a one-year deal, according to multiple reports. Coleman was released earlier this month by the Atlanta Falcons after spending three seasons with the team.

Coleman spent the first part of his career in New York with the Jets. He was a fifth-round draft pick back in 2004, and he signed with the Falcons in 2008. Following his three seasons in Atlanta, Coleman was let go by the Falcons.

Now set to be a member of the Lions, Coleman will have a chance to compete for a starting job. Although Amari Spievey showed signs of promise last season, the starting safety spot next to Louis Delmas is up in the air, meaning Coleman should be able to get involved in the competition and try to work his way into the starting lineup.