Lions to tender contract to Shaun Chapas, according to report

They aren't high-profile names by any means, but it's important to remember that the Detroit Lions have four exclusive-rights free agents this year. If the Lions tender a contract to them, the exclusive-rights free agents either have to sign or sit out the season. Since sitting out wouldn't make any sense, tendering a contract essentially means the Lions have re-signed them for next season.

The first piece of news on this year's exclusive-rights free agents comes from MLive's Justin Rogers, who reports that the Lions have decided to tender a contract to fullback Shaun Chapas. Chapas joined the Lions' 53-man roster toward the end of last season after being signed from the practice squad. He was active for three games for the Lions and had 1 catch for 6 yards.

Unless the Lions decide to make the fullback position a permanent part of their offense, it's unlikely that Chapas will make the 53-man roster for 2013. The main reason he was activated from the practice squad last season was because he was able to provide extra depth at tight end when injuries became an issue. Then again, he does give the Lions the flexibility to use a fullback, so it makes sense to bring him back, even if his chances of making the team seem slim.

The Lions' other three exclusive-rights free agents -- running back Joique Bell, wide receiver Kris Durham and safety Ricardo Silva -- have not been tendered yet. However, it's expected that all three will be tendered and brought back for next season.