Lions sign DT John Atkins from practice squad, waive WR Tom Kennedy

The Detroit Lions made a late move ahead of their Monday night game against the Green Bay Packers. They signed defensive tackle John Atkins up from the practice squad and waived wide receiver Tom Kennedy in a corresponding move, per the team’s official report.

Atkins did not make the opening 53-man roster and has been on the team’s practice squad for much of the season. The defensive tackle was with the Lions for parts of his rookie season in 2018, and even featured in two games.

Kennedy is an undrafted rookie wide receiver out of Bryant University. He initially failed to make the 53-man roster as well, but was added to the team's practice squad shortly after. In late September, the receiver was signed to the active roster.

The addition of Atkins helps shore up the team’s depth at defensive tackle, as second year player Da’Shawn Hand is set to miss the upcoming game with an elbow injury he suffered in training camp. And with A’Shawn Robinson questionable with a knee injury and Mike Daniels already announced as out, Atkins will provide an extra body out there.