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Lions to host DT Justin Bannan for visit

The Detroit Lions are bringing in a free-agent defensive tackle for a visit on Monday.

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

We're now less than a week away from the start of Detroit Lions training camp, but the team is still looking to bring in extra depth and talent. Case in point: Justin Bannan, a free-agent defensive tackle, is scheduled to visit the Lions on Monday, according to the Denver Post's Mike Klis. (Via Pro Football Talk)

Bannan, 34, has a lot of experience, especially as a starter in recent years. He started 15 games for the Denver Broncos last season, and he started all 16 games for them in 2010. In 2011, he started 14 games for the St. Louis Rams. Earlier in his career, he got starting experience as a member of the Baltimore Ravens and Buffalo Bills.

The Lions' interest in Bannan makes a lot of sense given their lack of depth at defensive tackle. Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley are excellent starters, and C.J. Mosley should be a solid backup. The Lions could use an upgrade over Ogemdi Nwagbuo and Jimmy Saddler-McQueen, though. There has been talk that the Lions may only keep three defensive tackles since defensive ends Jason Jones and Israel Idonije can slide inside, but if Detroit wants to go with four, Bannan would be better than some of the current options.

With the Lions releasing running back Jahvid Best on Wednesday, they have an open roster spot, so perhaps they will fill it by signing Bannan in advance of training camp.