Detroit Lions make Mike Daniels signing official, release Theo Riddick

On Saturday morning, the Detroit Lions made the signing of former Green Bay Packers defensive tackle Mike Daniels official. But the real bombshell came with the corresponding move.

Running back Theo Riddick has been released.

“We have all the respect for everything he’s done,” head coach Matt Patricia said of Riddick in his Saturday morning press conference.

Riddick has long been speculated as a potential cap casualty all offseason. The veteran running back carried a $4.625 million cap hit into the 2019 season. By releasing Riddick, the Lions will save over $3.6 million in cap space.

Riddick certainly had a down year last year, averaging a career-low 6.3 yards per reception. However, he actually averaged his highest yards per carry last season (4.3) and remained a key pass blocker on third down.

The move shows a clear confidence in the rest of the Lions’ running back group, including two newcomers: free agent signing C.J. Anderson and sixth-round draft pick Ty Johnson.