The Lions have re-signed free agent tight end Tim Wright, the club announced today. In a related move, Detroit has waived fellow tight end Brandon Barnes.
Wright, 27, was originally traded to the Lions prior to the 2015 season, and managed nine receptions in nine games during that campaign. The former Buccaneer and Patriot, who has 41 career games under his belt, looked primed to contend for a roster spot in 2016, but a torn ACL in May ended Wright’s season before it began. He spent the entirety of the year on injured reserve, and reached the open market this spring.
Detroit has already addressed its tight end group this offseason, as it signed former Cardinal Darren Fells and selected Toledo product Michael Roberts in the fourth round of the draft. While other reserve options include Khari Lee and Cole Wick, starter Eric Ebron is already dealing with a hamstring injury, so the Lions are searching for a bit more depth in the form of Wright.
Barnes, meanwhile, is an undrafted rookie free agent out of Alabama State. He managed five receptions, 85 yards, and one touchdown during his final collegiate season.