Lions sign Nate Ness from practice squad

After putting offensive tackle Corey Hilliard on injured reserve earlier in the week, the Detroit Lions had an open spot on their roster. On Saturday, they finally filled that spot by signing safety Nate Ness from their practice squad, according to Dave Birkett.

Ness has had an interesting journey to the Lions' 53-man roster. He first joined the team back in April as a cornerback, but he was released in May when the Lions signed their undrafted free agents. He later rejoined the team in August as a safety, and he picked off two passes in three preseason games.

Unfortunately for Ness, there were several defensive backs ahead of him when the final round of cuts took place, and he was released as a result. The Lions kept him around on their practice squad, though, and with cornerback Bill Bentley tearing his ACL last Monday, a spot opened up in the secondary. The Lions have elected to fill that spot with Ness, and he could potentially play on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers.

With Ness joining the active roster, the Lions now have an open spot on their practice squad. Chances are they won't fill it until next week, though.