Detroit Lions Practice Squad Taking Shape

All eight spots have not been filled, and the Detroit Lions haven't made an official announcement yet, but their practice squad is really starting to take shape. Five spots are accounted for, and a sixth player may have been added as well.

First, here is a list of the players already signed to the practice squad (via Dave Birkett): wide receiver Nate Hughes, center Dan Gerberry, offensive tackle Casey Bender, defensive tackle Corvey Irvin (yes, he is a practice squad player) and safety Ricardo Silva.

Another player who appears to be on his way to joining the practice squad is cornerback Walter McFadden. The Oakland Raiders released him on Saturday, and McFadden is going to sign with the Lions, according to RaidersBlog's Chris Hansen. The Detroit News' Chris McCosky says McFadden is a "practice squad guy," so it doesn't appear he is joining the 53-man roster.

McFadden was originally selected by the Raiders in the fifth round of last year's draft. He appeared in four games for the Raiders in 2010.