The Detroit Lions have adjusted their roster ahead of their matchup with the Green Bay Packers, making several moves to ensure more players are ready to step in as needed.
Roster Moves:
The team released TE Parker Hesse and elevated TE Shane Zylstra from the practice squad for the third week in a row. Zylstra, now solidly ahead of Hesse on the depth chart, has even taken on a fullback role. Lions tight ends coach Steve Heiden praised Zylstra’s versatility, noting his dedication to any role he’s given. Since this is Zylstra’s third practice squad elevation this season, Detroit will need to sign him to the main roster if they wish to continue playing him. Hesse could return to the practice squad next week.
New Signings:
DL Chris Smith and m BeauplLB Abrahaan were signed to the 53-man roster. With both Mekhi Wingo and Malcolm Rodriguez unavailable, Smith, who played briefly in the season opener, is expected to fill in on the defensive line. Beauplan, an undrafted rookie who missed last year due to injury, will make his NFL debut and provide linebacker depth.
Additional Elevation:
Al-Quadin Muhammad, also elevated from the practice squad, made a strong debut last week with six pressures on the field. Head coach Dan Campbell commended Muhammad’s performance and work ethic, saying he did exactly what the team expected of him. Detroit has now used two of Muhammad’s three practice squad elevations.
Further roster changes are anticipated soon, especially with Jameson Williams set to return from suspension after the Packers game, though a roster spot will need to open up for his activation.
