Detroit Lions release LB Reggie Gilbert

The Detroit Lions announced on Wednesday afternoon that they have released Reggie Gilbert.

Signed at the beginning of June, Gilbert provided Detroit’s edge depth with some true NFL experience. A five-year veteran in the NFL, Gilbert has played in 29 games and amassed 4.5 sacks as a member of the Packers and Titans.

Early in camp, Gilbert made a positive impression. He made my list of four standout players from Day 2 of training camp, notching a simulated sack against reserve tackle Matt Nelson and followed it up with a nice run stuff. However, Gilbert had missed the last few practices for an unknown reason.

Gilbert figured to be a part of the Lions’ depth competition on the edges, with Romeo Okwara and Trey Flowers assuming the starting spots. The return of Austin Bryant from the Physically Unable to Perform list, along with the solid early play from former first-round pick Charles Harris have, perhaps, provided some clarity to Detroit’s depth chart. This move could also mean a positive diagnosis for Julian Okwara, who left Wednesday’s practice with an injury.

The Lions now have an open spot on their roster again.