Lions claim former Browns linebacker Corey Lemonier

According to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Detroit Lions added some defensive help on Thursday, claiming linebacker Corey Lemonier, who was waived by the Cleveland Browns on Wednesday. No corresponding move has been made yet. [UPDATE: The Lions have waived cornerback Adairius Barnes]

Lemonier is a former third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers in 2013. In his three years with the 49ers, Lemonier appeared in 42 games, but made just two starts. Over that time, he tallied 37 tackles and one sack.

Coming out of Auburn, hopes were high for Lemonier. Though his play dipped as a senior, Lemonier earned first-team All-SEC honors in 2011 and followed it up with a second-team performance the following year. His scouting profile tagged his best fit as a 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL, and that’s where he played with both the 49ers and Browns.

With Detroit, it’ll be interesting to see where he fits. The Lions need some serious help with their pass rush, as Ezekiel Ansah continues to struggle with injury and Armonty Bryant is out for the rest of the year. However, Detroit has also had plenty of problems with their linebacking corps this year. Either way, I wouldn’t expect Lemonier to have any sort of impact this week. In fact, with only three career starts, I wouldn’t expect much of anything other than a special teams contributor at this point.