Pride Of Detroit - Lions roster cuts: Tracking Detroit's latest movesA Detroit Lions blog by Lions fans, for Lions fans.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/51601/pod-fav.png2013-09-04T16:58:12-04:00http://www.prideofdetroit.com/rss/stream/44214012013-09-04T16:58:12-04:002013-09-04T16:58:12-04:00Evaluating Lions roster: Defense & special teams
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Ez2MAaOTT4zYTIAEPHyiiFVR70g=/0x0:4000x2667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18804635/177229708.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Gregory Shamus</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Detroit Lions have established their 2013 roster. Let's take an in-depth, position-by-position look at the defense and special teams.</p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a> have established their 53-man roster after making some final tweaks before kicking off the 2013 regular season. Let's examine each position on defense and special teams by breaking down who made the team.</p>
<p><b>Defensive end (5): <span>Ziggy Ansah</span>, <span>Jason Jones</span>, <span>Israel Idonije</span>, <span>Willie Young</span>, <span>Devin Taylor</span></b></p>
<p>In terms of deciding who to keep on the 53-man roster, defensive end may have been the most straightforward position on the entire team. Ansah and Taylor, the two draft picks from this year, were a given to make the team, as were Jones and Idonije, the two free-agent signings. Young, the only holdover from last year, was also a given to make the team after another strong preseason.</p>
<p><b>Defensive tackle (4): <span>Ndamukong Suh</span>, <span>Nick Fairley</span>, <span>C.J. Mosley</span>, <span>Justin Bannan</span></b></p>
<p>Defensive tackle was also pretty straightforward for the Lions. Suh and Fairley are hoping to form the most dominant defensive tackle tandem in all of the NFL, and it was clear that Mosley was going to be the top backup at this position ever since he signed. Bannan may have only joined the Lions in mid-August, but he pretty much locked up the fourth spot at defensive tackle as soon as he was officially signed.</p>
<p><b>Linebacker (6): <span>Stephen Tulloch</span>, <span>DeAndre Levy</span>, <span>Ashlee Palmer</span>, <span>Tahir Whitehead</span>, <span>Travis Lewis</span>, <span>Rocky McIntosh</span></b></p>
<p>Are you sensing a theme here? With Tulloch, Levy and Palmer established as the starters, there was no question that they would make the team. There was also no question (to me, anyway) that Whitehead and Lewis, two backups who competed for a starting spot in training camp, were going to make the team. The last spot was up for grabs going into the final round of cuts, and the Lions ultimately went with McIntosh. He was actually released on Sunday, but the Lions brought him back a few days later, giving them six linebackers going into the season.</p>
<p><b>Cornerback (5): <span>Chris Houston</span>, <span>Darius Slay</span>, <span>Bill Bentley</span>, <span>Jonte Green</span>, <span>Rashean Mathis</span></b></p>
<p>One of the bigger surprises about the 53-man roster is that <span>Ron Bartell</span> is not on the above list. He came into training camp as a starter, but he didn't even make the team. Instead, the Lions went with Houston and Slay as the starters, and they decided to keep Bentley and Green, who are both entering their second year in the league. They also decided to keep Mathis, who only joined the Lions in mid-August, because of his ability to play cornerback and safety.</p>
<p><b>Safety (5): <span>Glover Quin</span>, <span>Louis Delmas</span>, <span>Don Carey</span>, <span>John Wendling</span>, <span>DeJon Gomes</span></b></p>
<p>As long as Delmas is healthy, he will be a starter at safety alongside Quin. If Delmas isn't healthy, Carey will step in for him in the starting lineup. This leaves Wendling and Gomes, who was just claimed off waivers from the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a> on Sunday, as the other backups. Wendling will primarily be a special teams player, and chances are Gomes will see a lot of playing time on special teams as well.</p>
<p><b>Kicker (1): <span>David Akers</span></b></p>
<p>The Lions' replacement for the retired <span>Jason Hanson</span> is Akers, who beat out <span>Havard Rugland</span> for this spot. Akers appears to finally be healthy, and hopefully that means his accuracy will return to pre-2012 form. If that doesn't happen, the Lions may have to make a mid-season change at kicker, but let's hope it doesn't come to that.</p>
<p><b>Punter (1): <span>Sam Martin</span></b></p>
<p>Martin, who was drafted by the Lions in April, beat out <span>Blake Clingan</span> for the starting punter job. Martin had an impressive preseason, and not just as a punter. He also displayed an ability to consistently boot kickoffs out of the end zone, and he will serve as the Lions' kickoff specialist in addition to being their punter.</p>
<p><b>Long snapper (1): <span>Don Muhlbach</span></b></p>
<p>After Muhlbach went to the Pro Bowl last season, the Lions didn't even bother to bring in a camp body to compete with him at long snapper. This was his job all the way.</p>
<h4>More from Pride Of Detroit:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4694720/lions-injury-report-ziggy-ansah">Lions injury report: Ziggy Ansah has concussion</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4692666/sit-start-fantasy-football-advice-matthew-stafford-reggie-bush-detroit-lions?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Sit/start fantasy football advice: Which Lions to play in Week 1</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4683634/lions-53-man-roster-2013?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">How the Lions' 53-man roster came together</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4682890/detroit-lions-roster-2013-offense?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Evaluating the Lions roster: Offense</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4693800/lions-rocky-mcintosh-montell-owens?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions re-sign Rocky McIntosh, place Montell Owens on short-term IR</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4683080/detroit-lions-roster-2013-defense-special-teamsSean Yuille2013-09-04T13:55:16-04:002013-09-04T13:55:16-04:00How the Lions' 53-man roster came together
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/X3Co_u0vMLzxdPCA6Um-Y3u5g9U=/4x0:3995x2661/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18816285/20130727_jla_af3_016.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A look at how the Detroit Lions acquired each player on their 53-man roster.</p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a>' 53-man roster for Week 1 of the 2013 season is now in place. How exactly did it come together? Check out the table below.</p>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="704">
<colgroup>
<col width="33">
<col width="125">
<col width="64">
<col width="134">
<col width="348">
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20" width="33"><b>Pos.</b></td>
<td align="left" width="125"><b>Player</b></td>
<td align="center" width="64"><b>Age</b></td>
<td align="center" width="134"><b>Signed through</b></td>
<td align="left" width="348"><b>Acquired</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>QB</b></td>
<td align="left">Matthew Stafford</td>
<td align="center">25</td>
<td align="center">2017</td>
<td align="left">2009: Drafted 1st overall (1st round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Shaun Hill</td>
<td align="center">33</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2010: Traded from 49ers</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Kellen Moore</td>
<td align="center">24</td>
<td align="center">2014</td>
<td align="left">2012: Signed as undrafted free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>RB</b></td>
<td align="left">Reggie Bush</td>
<td align="center">28</td>
<td align="center">2016</td>
<td align="left">2013: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Joique Bell</td>
<td align="center">27</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2011: Signed as free agent (off Saints practice squad)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Mikel Leshoure</td>
<td align="center">23</td>
<td align="center">2014</td>
<td align="left">2011: Drafted 57th overall (2nd round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Theo Riddick</td>
<td align="center">22</td>
<td align="center">2016</td>
<td align="left">2013: Drafted 199th overall (6th round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>WR</b></td>
<td align="left">Calvin Johnson</td>
<td align="center">27</td>
<td align="center">2019</td>
<td align="left">2007: Drafted 2nd overall (1st round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Nate Burleson</td>
<td align="center">32</td>
<td align="center">2014</td>
<td align="left">2010: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Ryan Broyles</td>
<td align="center">25</td>
<td align="center">2015</td>
<td align="left">2012: Drafted 54th overall (2nd round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Patrick Edwards</td>
<td align="center">24</td>
<td align="center">2014</td>
<td align="left">2012: Signed as undrafted free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Kris Durham</td>
<td align="center">25</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2012: Signed as free agent (off Lions practice squad)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Micheal Spurlock</td>
<td align="center">30</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2013: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>TE</b></td>
<td align="left">Brandon Pettigrew</td>
<td align="center">28</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2009: Drafted 20th overall (1st round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Tony Scheffler</td>
<td align="center">30</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2010: Traded from Broncos</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Joseph Fauria</td>
<td align="center">23</td>
<td align="center">2015</td>
<td align="left">2013: Signed as undrafted free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>OT</b></td>
<td align="left">Riley Reiff</td>
<td align="center">24</td>
<td align="center">2015+option</td>
<td align="left">2012: Drafted 23rd overall (1st round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Jason Fox</td>
<td align="center">25</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2010: Drafted 128th overall (4th round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Corey Hilliard</td>
<td align="center">28</td>
<td align="center">2014</td>
<td align="left">2009: Signed as free agent (off Browns practice squad)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">LaAdrian Waddle</td>
<td align="center">22</td>
<td align="center">2015</td>
<td align="left">2013: Signed as undrafted free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>OG</b></td>
<td align="left">Rob Sims</td>
<td align="center">29</td>
<td align="center">2014</td>
<td align="left">2010: Traded from Seahawks</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Larry Warford</td>
<td align="center">22</td>
<td align="center">2016</td>
<td align="left">2013: Drafted 65th overall (3rd round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Dylan Gandy</td>
<td align="center">31</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2009: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>C</b></td>
<td align="left">Dominic Raiola</td>
<td align="center">34</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2001: Drafted 50th overall (2nd round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Leroy Harris</td>
<td align="center">29</td>
<td align="center">2014</td>
<td align="left">2013: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>DE</b></td>
<td align="left">Ziggy Ansah</td>
<td align="center">24</td>
<td align="center">2016+option</td>
<td align="left">2013: Drafted 5th overall (1st round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Jason Jones</td>
<td align="center">27</td>
<td align="center">2015</td>
<td align="left">2013: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Israel Idonije</td>
<td align="center">32</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2013: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Willie Young</td>
<td align="center">27</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2010: Drafted 213th overall (7th round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Devin Taylor</td>
<td align="center">23</td>
<td align="center">2016</td>
<td align="left">2013: Drafted 132nd overall (4th round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>DT</b></td>
<td align="left">Ndamukong Suh</td>
<td align="center">26</td>
<td align="center">2015 (voidable year)</td>
<td align="left">2010: Drafted 2nd overall (1st round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Nick Fairley</td>
<td align="center">25</td>
<td align="center">2014+option</td>
<td align="left">2011: Drafted 13th overall (1st round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">C.J. Mosley</td>
<td align="center">30</td>
<td align="center">2014</td>
<td align="left">2013: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Justin Bannan</td>
<td align="center">34</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2013: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>LB</b></td>
<td align="left">Stephen Tulloch</td>
<td align="center">28</td>
<td align="center">2016</td>
<td align="left">2011: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">DeAndre Levy</td>
<td align="center">26</td>
<td align="center">2015</td>
<td align="left">2009: Drafted 76th overall (3rd round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Ashlee Palmer</td>
<td align="center">27</td>
<td align="center">2014</td>
<td align="left">2010: Claimed off waivers (from Bills)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Tahir Whitehead</td>
<td align="center">23</td>
<td align="center">2015</td>
<td align="left">2012: Drafted 138th overall (5th round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Travis Lewis</td>
<td align="center">25</td>
<td align="center">2015</td>
<td align="left">2012: Drafted 223rd overall (7th round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Rocky McIntosh</td>
<td align="center">30</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2013: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>CB</b></td>
<td align="left">Chris Houston</td>
<td align="center">28</td>
<td align="center">2017</td>
<td align="left">2010: Traded from Falcons</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Darius Slay</td>
<td align="center">22</td>
<td align="center">2016</td>
<td align="left">2013: Drafted 36th overall (2nd round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Bill Bentley</td>
<td align="center">24</td>
<td align="center">2015</td>
<td align="left">2012: Drafted 85th overall (3rd round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Jonte Green</td>
<td align="center">24</td>
<td align="center">2015</td>
<td align="left">2012: Drafted 196th overall (6th round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Rashean Mathis</td>
<td align="center">33</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2013: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>S</b></td>
<td align="left">Glover Quin</td>
<td align="center">27</td>
<td align="center">2017</td>
<td align="left">2013: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Louis Delmas</td>
<td align="center">26</td>
<td align="center">2014</td>
<td align="left">2009: Drafted 33rd overall (2nd round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">Don Carey</td>
<td align="center">26</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2012: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">John Wendling</td>
<td align="center">30</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2010: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b></b></td>
<td align="left">DeJon Gomes</td>
<td align="center">23</td>
<td align="center">2014</td>
<td align="left">2013: Claimed off waivers (from Redskins)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>K</b></td>
<td align="left">David Akers</td>
<td align="center">38</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2013: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>P</b></td>
<td align="left">Sam Martin</td>
<td align="center">23</td>
<td align="center">2016</td>
<td align="left">2013: Drafted 137th overall (5th round)</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><b>LS</b></td>
<td align="left">Don Muhlbach</td>
<td align="center">32</td>
<td align="center">2013</td>
<td align="left">2004: Signed as free agent</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The Lions have 25 players on offense, 25 on defense and three on special teams. Of the 53 players on their team, 23 were drafted by the Lions, 17 were signed as free agents, four were signed as undrafted free agents, four were acquired via a trade, three were signed off a practice squad and two were claimed off waivers.</p>
<p>With <span>Jason Hanson</span> and <span>Jeff Backus</span> both retiring this past offseason, <span>Dominic Raiola</span> is now the longest-tenured Lion on the team. In second is <span>Don Muhlbach</span> and in third is Calvin Johnson. These three players are actually the only guys left on the team who were around for the 2008 season. That's pretty amazing to think about.</p>
<p>One other stat that stood out to me: 20 players on the roster were acquired by the Lions this year. The Lions have 10 players left who were acquired in 2012, four from 2011, 10 from 2010, six from 2009 and one each from 2007, 2004 and 2001.</p>
<h4>More from Pride Of Detroit:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4682890/detroit-lions-roster-2013-offense?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Evaluating the Lions roster: Offense</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4693800/lions-rocky-mcintosh-montell-owens?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions re-sign Rocky McIntosh, place Montell Owens on short-term IR</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4686828/detroit-lions-defensive-mvp-2013-poll?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">POLL: Who will Lions' defensive MVP be in 2013?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4691162/lions-notes-number-changes-injury-updates?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions notes: Number changes, injury updates, more</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4690430/wednesday-lions-open-thread?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wednesday Lions open thread</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4683634/lions-53-man-roster-2013Sean Yuille2013-09-04T12:28:03-04:002013-09-04T12:28:03-04:00Evaluating the Lions roster: Offense
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/76rJmsQo2kw604tZDjQx2SJt7js=/0x90:2712x1898/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18801865/175885939.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Leon Halip</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Detroit Lions have established their 2013 roster. Let's take an in-depth, position-by-position look at the offense.</p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a> have established their 53-man roster after making some final tweaks before kicking off the 2013 regular season. Let's examine each position on offense by breaking down who made the team.</p>
<p><b>Quarterback (3): <span>Matthew Stafford</span>, <span>Shaun Hill</span>, <span>Kellen Moore</span></b></p>
<p>The Lions are going into the 2013 season with the same three quarterbacks as last year. Stafford is back again as the starter, just as Hill is back again as the backup and Moore is back again as the third-stringer. Assuming there are no injuries, Stafford should start every game and Moore shouldn't even dress once over the course of the 2013 season.</p>
<p><b>Running back (4): <span>Reggie Bush</span>, <span>Joique Bell</span>, <span>Mikel Leshoure</span>, <span>Theo Riddick</span></b></p>
<p>The Lions initially had five running backs on their 53-man roster before putting <span>Montell Owens</span> on short-term injured reserve. He will be back later in the season to help on offense and special teams. For now, the Lions have four running backs, and they have Bush as their starter and one of the biggest offensive weapons on the team. Bell is expected to be the No. 2 running back after a strong preseason, and Leshoure and Riddick round out the depth chart.</p>
<p><b>Wide receiver (6): <span>Calvin Johnson</span>, <span>Nate Burleson</span>, <span>Ryan Broyles</span>, <span>Patrick Edwards</span>, <span>Kris Durham</span>, <span>Micheal Spurlock</span></b></p>
<p>The Lions surprisingly went with six wide receivers. Johnson is the best player on the team, but the talent behind him seems pretty iffy. Burleson had a pretty weak preseason, and Broyles is still working his way back from the torn ACL he suffered last season. Edwards made the team after a strong training camp, and Durham was kept over Matt Willis for whatever reason. Finally, Spurlock will likely be the Lions' return specialist and play mainly on special teams.</p>
<p><b>Tight end (3): <span>Brandon Pettigrew</span>, <span>Tony Scheffler</span>, <span>Joseph Fauria</span></b></p>
<p>With Michael Williams on injured reserve and out for the season, the Lions have three tight ends. Pettigrew and Scheffler are back for another year as the top two tight ends on the Lions' depth chart. Fauria, an undrafted free agent, is new to the team, and he made the 53-man roster thanks to a strong showing over the course of the last month. He could develop into another weapon on offense for the Lions because of his size, especially in the red zone.</p>
<p><b>Offensive tackle (4): <span>Riley Reiff</span>, <span>Jason Fox</span>, <span>Corey Hilliard</span>, <span>LaAdrian Waddle</span></b></p>
<p>The Lions surprisingly didn't go out and sign a veteran offensive tackle in the offseason. They were comfortable with the guys on their team, and training camp and the preseason didn't change anything. Reiff, as expected, will be the starter at left tackle, and it appears that Fox will be the starter at right tackle. Hilliard and Waddle, another undrafted free agent, will serve as the backups at tackle.</p>
<p><b>Offensive guard & center (5): <span>Rob Sims</span>, <span>Dominic Raiola</span>, <span>Larry Warford</span>, <span>Leroy Harris</span>, </b><b><span>Dylan Gandy</span></b></p>
<p>Sims and Raiola are the only returning starters on the offensive line. They will likely be joined in the starting lineup by Warford at right guard, and behind them are two versatile players in Harris and Gandy. They can play both offensive guard and center, which is a big reason why the Lions decided to keep them on the 53-man roster.</p>
<h4>More from Pride Of Detroit:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4693800/lions-rocky-mcintosh-montell-owens">Lions re-sign Rocky McIntosh, place Montell Owens on short-term IR</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4686828/detroit-lions-defensive-mvp-2013-poll?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">POLL: Who will Lions' defensive MVP be in 2013?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4691162/lions-notes-number-changes-injury-updates?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions notes: Number changes, injury updates, more</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4690430/wednesday-lions-open-thread?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Wednesday Lions open thread</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/3/4692378/lions-depth-chart-2013-week-1?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions depth chart released for Week 1 of season</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/4/4682890/detroit-lions-roster-2013-offenseSean Yuille2013-09-01T18:12:43-04:002013-09-01T18:12:43-04:00Lions release Rocky McIntosh
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/tsMrqRa-Z5V6RsWW5GN175A8pnU=/0x599:2763x2441/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18820337/20130101_mjr_su5_165.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>One day after the final rounds of cuts, the Detroit Lions made another move by releasing Rocky McIntosh.</p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a> may have established their 53-man roster on Saturday, but it's not truly finalized for Week 1 of the season just yet. Case in point: Linebacker <span>Rocky McIntosh</span> was <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/ttwentyman/status/374285032242028544">released on Sunday</a>.</p>
<p>McIntosh joined the Lions a couple weeks ago as added depth at linebacker. With <span>Cory Greenwood</span> on injured reserve because of an injury, McIntosh looked like a good bet to make the 53-man roster, and he did just that -- for one day, anyway. With Chris White and <span>Brandon Hepburn</span> both being released, it looked like McIntosh was safe from being cut on Sunday, but that wasn't the case.</p>
<p>With McIntosh gone, the Lions now have room to add safety <span>DeJon Gomes</span>, who was <a target="_blank" href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4683210/lions-claim-dejon-gomes">reportedly claimed off waivers</a> from the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a> earlier in the day. If those are the only two moves the Lions have planned for the defense, then they will go into the regular season with five linebackers and 10 defensive backs.</p>
<p>Of course, the two moves on Sunday could just be the first set of a few before the Lions truly finalize their 53-man roster. With Montell Owens set to go on short-term injured reserve next week, we know there will be at least one open roster spot, and changes could still be coming to a position like wide receiver. In other words, there is still work to be done before the season begins.</p>
<h4>More from Pride Of Detroit:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4683876/chris-white-patriots-lions?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Patriots claim Chris White off waivers from Lions</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4683256/lions-practice-squad-2013?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions practice squad: Eight players signed</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4683210/lions-claim-dejon-gomes?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions claim DeJon Gomes off waivers</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4680148/welcome-to-the-pride-eric-shinabarger?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Welcome to the Pride: Eric Shinabarger</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4681874/lions-notes-nfl-roster-cuts-2013?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions notes: More on the final round of cuts</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4684110/lions-roster-cuts-2013-rocky-mcintoshSean Yuille2013-09-01T17:01:08-04:002013-09-01T17:01:08-04:00Patriots claim Chris White off waivers from Lions
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/MOEXT1yrQwx_fA9mIfvBH-pgS80=/0x144:4000x2811/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18816757/20121230_mjr_su5_540.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Former Detroit Lions linebacker Chris White already has a new team.</p> <p>At least one player released by the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a> during the final round of roster cuts has already landed with a new team.</p>
<p>Linebacker Chris White was <a target="_blank" href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/8/31/4680610/detroit-lions-roster-cuts-shaun-chapas-chris-white">released by the Lions on Saturday</a>, and he didn't even make it to free agency. Instead, he was one of four players <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/shalisemyoung/status/374267417910075392">claimed on Sunday</a> by the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.patspulpit.com/">New England Patriots</a>.</p>
<p>This is actually White's third team in the last week. One week ago to the day, White was traded by the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a> to the Lions in exchange for quarterback Thaddeus Lewis. Both players involved in the deal were cut on Saturday, but White has now been claimed by the Patriots and Lewis has been <a target="_blank" href="http://www.buffalobills.com/news/article-2/Bills-sign-five-to-practice-squad/5f841d74-a16d-4a92-a514-2f5cded00ba2?campaign=tw_buf_aricle">signed to the Bills' practice squad</a>.</p>
<p>As far as we know, White is the only Lions cut to be picked up by another team so far. Eight other players released by the Lions on Saturday have already been <a target="_blank" href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4683256/lions-practice-squad-2013">brought back as members of their practice squad</a>, and one is likely headed to injured reserve after <a target="_blank" href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/8/31/4679302/nfl-roster-cuts-martavius-neloms-detroit-lions">being waived/injured</a>. This means the 11 other cuts appear to be on their way to free agency, at least for right now.</p>
<h4>More from Pride Of Detroit:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4683256/lions-practice-squad-2013?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions practice squad: Eight players signed</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4683210/lions-claim-dejon-gomes?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions claim DeJon Gomes off waivers</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4680148/welcome-to-the-pride-eric-shinabarger?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Welcome to the Pride: Eric Shinabarger</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4681874/lions-notes-nfl-roster-cuts-2013?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions notes: More on the final round of cuts</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4681866/sunday-lions-open-thread?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Sunday Lions open thread</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4683876/chris-white-patriots-lionsSean Yuille2013-09-01T14:02:21-04:002013-09-01T14:02:21-04:00Lions sign eight players to practice squad
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/jIbKbkxdEubO4uAPCj6PAy2NOsk=/0x299:4000x2966/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18807497/20130829_krj_ah3_020.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Detroit Lions have announced their initial practice squad for the 2013 season.</p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a> didn't waste any time in establishing their initial practice squad for 2013. On Sunday afternoon, they <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/ttwentyman/status/374228313301991424">announced the signing</a> of eight players to the practice squad. Here's what it looks like:</p>
<p>RB Steven Miller<br>FB Shaun Chapas<br>WR Corey Fuller<br>OG Rodney Austin<br>DT Jimmy Saddler-McQueen<br>DT Xavier Proctor<br>LB Brandon Hepburn<br>CB Chris Greenwood</p>
<p>All eight of the players on the practice squad were released by the Lions on Saturday. What this means is that the Lions really liked a lot of the players they had to let go on Saturday considering eight of them are back as members of the practice squad.</p>
<p>The breakdown for this year's practice squad is as follows: two 2013 undrafted free agents (Miller and Proctor), two 2013 draft picks (Fuller and Hepburn), one 2012 draft pick (Greenwood) and three players who spent time on last year's practice squad (Chapas, Austin and Saddler-McQueen).</p>
<h4>More from Pride Of Detroit:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4683210/lions-claim-dejon-gomes">Lions claim DeJon Gomes off waivers</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4680148/welcome-to-the-pride-eric-shinabarger?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Welcome to the Pride: Eric Shinabarger</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4681874/lions-notes-nfl-roster-cuts-2013?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions notes: More on the final round of cuts</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4681866/sunday-lions-open-thread?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Sunday Lions open thread</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4681722/lions-roster-cuts-2013-final-round?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions roster cuts: Evaluating the final round of moves</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/8/31/4680792/detroit-lions-53-man-roster-2013?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions establish 53-man roster</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4683256/lions-practice-squad-2013Sean Yuille2013-09-01T13:48:11-04:002013-09-01T13:48:11-04:00Lions claim DeJon Gomes off waivers
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/MZwXQ3Zd8l5A0mOFHigpF5vW72w=/0x124:2928x2076/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18806643/20121219_kkt_ar7_757.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>David Richard-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Detroit Lions have made a change to their roster by claiming a safety off waivers.</p> <p>Remember how we said that the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a>' "final" 53-man roster wouldn't truly be final? That's because they typically make a couple changes here or there before truly finalizing it for the first week of the season, and that once again has happened this year.</p>
<p>Specifically, the Lions have made a change by claiming safety <span>DeJon Gomes</span> off waivers, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/RavensInsider/status/374224516152442880">Aaron Wilson</a>. Gomes was let go by the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a> during the final round of roster cuts, and now he is off to Detroit as the Lions' fifth safety, assuming that <span>John Wendling</span> is kept around.</p>
<p>Gomes, a fifth-round pick in 2011, was active for 15 games in each of his first two seasons in the NFL. He made five starts in his rookie year and three in 2012. Last season, he recorded 40 tackles, 4 passes defended and an interception for Washington.</p>
<p>It's not clear at this point who the Lions are going to release to make room for Gomes. We know that running back <span>Montell Owens</span> is going to be placed on short-term injured reserve, but not until next week. Perhaps wide receiver <span>Kris Durham</span> will be let go considering the Lions currently have six wide receivers on their roster. Releasing him to add Gomes would even things up with 25 players on offense and 25 on defense.</p>
<h4>More from Pride Of Detroit:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4680148/welcome-to-the-pride-eric-shinabarger?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Welcome to the Pride: Eric Shinabarger</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4681874/lions-notes-nfl-roster-cuts-2013?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions notes: More on the final round of cuts</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4681866/sunday-lions-open-thread?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Sunday Lions open thread</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4681722/lions-roster-cuts-2013-final-round?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions roster cuts: Evaluating the final round of moves</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/8/31/4680792/detroit-lions-53-man-roster-2013?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions establish 53-man roster</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4683210/lions-claim-dejon-gomesSean Yuille2013-09-01T10:00:07-04:002013-09-01T10:00:07-04:00Lions notes: More on the final round of cuts
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qqYvUwxwqj0ViFyA_hfz_xLtnT8=/0x159:4000x2826/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18784593/178405488.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Rick Stewart</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Lions notes takes a look back at Saturday's NFL roster cuts.</p> <ul>
<li>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a> recently worked out former <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Chicago Bears</a> wide receiver <span>Devin Aromashodu</span>, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/373969875309314048">Adam Schefter</a>.<br><br>
</li>
<li>Based on the 53-man rosters at the end of Saturday, the Lions are currently the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/red_zone/Ranking-NFL-teams-by-age-Rams-the-youngest-Lions-are-the-oldest-Eagles-10th.html">oldest team in the NFL</a>.<br><br>
</li>
<li>Quarterback Thaddeus Lewis, who was traded to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a> last Sunday, was <a target="_blank" href="http://www.buffalorumblings.com/2013/8/31/4680460/bills-roster-cuts-2013-bryan-scott-torell-troup-thaddeus-lewis">released on Saturday</a>. The player the Lions got in that trade, linebacker Chris White, was also <a target="_blank" href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/8/31/4680610/detroit-lions-roster-cuts-shaun-chapas-chris-white">released on Saturday</a>.<br><br>
</li>
<li>Former Lions cornerback <span>Drayton Florence</span> was <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/373785948212850688">let go</a> by the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Carolina Panthers</a> during the final round of roster cuts.<br><br>
</li>
<li>Linebacker Doug Hogue, another former Lions player, was <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/RavensInsider/status/373828095985197056">also released</a> by the Panthers on Saturday.<br><br>
</li>
<li>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">San Francisco 49ers</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/kassimosgood81/status/373855815620640768">decided to release</a> former Lions wide receiver <span>Kassim Osgood</span>.<br><br>
</li>
<li>Lions punter <span>Sam Martin</span> took <span>Havard Rugland</span> to the Michigan/Central Michigan game on Saturday afternoon.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Kickalicious and myself will be attending the Michigan game today. Excited to see what I missed out on in 07'.</p>
— Sam Martin (@SamMartin_6) <a href="https://twitter.com/SamMartin_6/statuses/373856184932892672">August 31, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br>
</li>
<li>Former <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a> cornerback <span>Antoine Winfield</span> <a target="_blank" href="http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/08/31/antoine-winfield-retires/">decided to retire</a> on Saturday after <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/JasonLaCanfora/status/373787861071327232">it was reported</a> that the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/">Seattle Seahawks</a> decided to release him.<br><br>
</li>
<li>Barry Sanders has a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EoJi8lPTQg&feature=youtu.be">hilarious new commercial</a> with Desmond Howard.</li>
</ul>
<h4>More from Pride Of Detroit:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4681722/lions-roster-cuts-2013-final-round">Lions roster cuts: Evaluating the final round of moves</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/8/31/4680792/detroit-lions-53-man-roster-2013?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions establish 53-man roster</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/8/31/4680766/detroit-lions-cuts-final-three?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions roster cuts: Three defensive lineman released</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/8/31/4680610/detroit-lions-roster-cuts-shaun-chapas-chris-white?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions roster cuts: Shaun Chapas, Chris White released</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/8/31/4680664/lions-michael-williams-injured-reserve?utm_source=prideofdetroit&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Lions place Michael Williams on injured reserve</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2013/9/1/4681874/lions-notes-nfl-roster-cuts-2013Sean Yuille