Lions linebacker Stephen Tulloch was excused from mandatory minicamp, a source tells Ian Rapoport of NFL.com (on Twitter). His impending release should come in the next few weeks, Rapoport adds. 
[RELATED: Lions Sign Andre Roberts]
Back in February, the Lions reportedly informed the veteran that he would be cut loose this offseason. However, for the last few months, he has been in a strange limbo with the team. The Lions have repeatedly declined to comment on Tulloch’s status even though the football world has been anticipating his release.
“What a journey it’s been Detroit!,” Tulloch wrote on Instagram roughly four months ago. “Five years of some of the greatest memories of my career. I can’t put into words how grateful I am to have played for such a great organization. I want thank the Ford family, the front office, the strength coaches, trainers, equipment staff, and everybody in between for everything you have done for me over the years. Last but not least I want to thank the community of Detroit for being behind me and my foundation over the years in making a difference in many lives. Such as life there is constant change. But change that I’m looking forward to. As one chapter closes in my career another one opens up.”
Tulloch, 31, has spent the last five years with the Lions. He has played in all 16 regular games of each season except for in 2014. In a September contest against the Packers, Tulloch tore his ACL while celebrating a sack, ending his season prematurely. In 2015, he restored his ironman cred by playing in 16 games, racking up 108 total tackles, 1 sack, and 2 fumble recoveries.
Photo courtesy of USA Today Sports Images.