Lions Finalize Initial 53-Man Roster

Detroit got an early start on reducing its roster size Monday, but the team made the final moves toward 53 players Tuesday. Here are the moves from today that got the Lions there:

Released:

• QB Tim Boyle
• LB Jarrad Davis (story)
• TE Devin Funchess
• DL Bruce Hector
• RB Justin Jackson
• T Kendall Lamm
• T Dan Skipper

Waived:

• WR Maurice Alexander
• CB Cedric Boswell
• TE Derrick Deese
• T Obinna Eze
• CB Mark Gilbert
• LB James Houston
• RB Godwin Igwebuike
• WR Tom Kennedy
• CB AJ Parker
• K Riley Patterson
• T Darrin Paulo
• WR Kalil Pimpleton
• LB Anthony Pittman
• CB Saivion Smith

Waived/injured:

• DL Eric Banks
• WR Trinity Benson
• DL Jashon Cornell
• G Kevin Jarvis
• S C.J. Moore

Placed on reserve/physically unable to perform:

• CB Jerry Jacobs

Houston was the only member of the Lions’ 2022 rookie class that failed to make the initial 53-man roster. The young linebacker should have a good chance to land on the team’s 16-man practice squad Wednesday, if he can clear waivers. On the other hand, undrafted defensive lineman Demetrius Taylor found his way onto the roster after a disruptive preseason. Another undrafted rookie, running back Greg Bell, didn’t make the roster, but will remain with the team on Detroit’s injured reserve.

There were a number of surprising, but necessary, cuts today. Igwebuike had a decent chance to make the roster due to his experience and ability returning kicks. Kennedy led the team in catches, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns during the preseason. His lack of effective use on special teams likely lost him his spot on the final roster. Parker started much of last year at nickel for the Lions. Unfortunately he was expendable after the offseason additions of veteran JuJu Hughes and rookie Chase Lucas.

The winner of the kicking battle has been crowned as Austin Seibert made the final roster over Patterson. Patterson showed plenty of ability during the last couple of weeks and it would be no surprise if he was to be claimed by another team off waivers by tomorrow.

Finally, it appears the backup quarterback battle was won by David Blough, who outperformed Boyle in preseason. Still, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Detroit peruse the mass of recently waived players for a new quarterback. They have the second-highest priority on the waiver wire and should have their pick of the litter if they think they can improve on Blough.