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The Detroit Lions have released two more players, according to Dave Birkett: linebacker Shamari Benton and receiver Kris Durham.
Considering that Benton just signed with the Lions on Aug. 16, it's no surprise that he has been released. He was brought in simply as extra depth for the final couple weeks of the preseason, and he didn't exactly have much time to make his case for inclusion on the 53-man roster. Perhaps he did enough to make the practice squad, but anything beyond that was always going to be highly unlikely after joining the Lions so late in the summer.
The release of Durham is a bit of a surprise considering he was the Lions' replacement for Calvin Johnson in the starting lineup in the preseason. He only had four catches for 17 yards and one touchdown, but it seemed like he was in their plans as their No. 4 or No. 5 receiver. Instead, a year after serving as the Lions' No. 2 receiver for an extended period of time, he's now off the team.
Durham's release could be very good news for Corey Fuller, who impressed all during training camp.