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The Detroit Lions placed linebacker Stephen Tulloch on injured reserve on Monday, ending his 2014 season. The move came after Tulloch tore his ACL on Sunday, and it opened up a roster spot.
On Monday night, the Lions decided to fill that open roster spot by signing linebacker Josh Bynes off the Baltimore Ravens' practice squad. The signing isn't official just yet, but Bynes is expected to join the Lions.
Inside linebacker Josh Bynes is expected to sign with the Detroit Lions' active roster off of the Ravens' practice squad, per sources
— Aaron Wilson (@RavensInsider) September 23, 2014
Bynes entered the NFL in 2011 as an undrafted free agent out of Auburn. He was active for only one game as a rookie with the Ravens, but he made three starts in 10 games in 2012. Last year, Bynes started six games and recorded 45 tackles and three pass defenses for the Ravens.
Considering Lions defensive coordinator Teryl Austin was in Baltimore at the same time as Bynes, that connection likely had something to do with this move. Bynes should be somewhat familiar with Austin's system, and if nothing else, he gives the Lions some much-needed depth at linebacker. Chances are he won't be expected to step in as a starter, but I suppose we shouldn't rule it out down the road considering he does have starting experience.