Breaking news: Just In Lions Confirm The Depature Of Another Top Player

The Detroit Lions are clearing space for their injured players to return by letting go of a second-year cornerback to free up roster spots.

In preparation for Saturday’s match against the Dallas Cowboys, the Lions announced several roster changes. This included the departure of cornerback Chase Lucas, a seventh-round pick from 2022, who featured in 12 games this season but primarily contributed on special teams rather than in a substantial defensive role.

 

 

Additionally, linebacker Trevor Nowaske, who participated in two games this season and managed one tackle, was also released. The releases of Lucas and Nowaske were aimed at creating vacancies for the Lions to bring back fullback Jason Cabinda, and potentially accommodate other returning defensive players.

Chase Lucas Faced Training Camp Trouble

Despite Chase Lucas playing a significant role in special teams, contributing to 72% of special teams snaps over 12 games this season, his position within the team wasn’t always secure. Colton Pouncy from The Athletic had foreseen potential challenges for Lucas following the Lions’ substantial offseason acquisitions, such as safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson and cornerback Emmanuel Moseley. Pouncy speculated that Lucas might encounter difficulties in securing a spot on the final roster after the training camp.

“Being a seventh-round pick in 2022 who secured a place on Detroit’s 53-man roster due to an impressive preseason, Lucas needs to replicate that success this year,” Pouncy mentioned. “Injuries have hindered his field time this offseason, and there’s increased competition in 2023. He faces the risk of being sidelined.”

Lucas ultimately didn’t make the final roster cut but was initially added to the practice squad, eventually earning a promotion to the active roster in September.

Lions Looking for Defensive Returns

The Lions seem poised to welcome back two crucial players who have spent extended periods on injured reserve. C.J. Gardner-Johnson, sidelined since sustaining a torn pectoral muscle in a Week 2 defeat against the Seattle Seahawks, recently returned to practice after being designated for a return.

Despite Lions head coach Dan Campbell indicating Gardner-Johnson’s progress towards a comeback, the team decided to rule him out for the upcoming game against the Cowboys.

“C.J. is nearing a return. He’s close,” mentioned Campbell in an interview with 97.1 The Ticket, as reported by USA Today’s Lions Wire. “We need to determine our next steps and what exactly ‘close’ means.”

During Gardner-Johnson’s absence, safety Ifeatu Melifonwu has delivered commendable performances, boasting three sacks and a pivotal interception in the recent victory against the Minnesota Vikings that clinched the division. Campbell expressed anticipation about having two impactful players in the secondary.

“When [Gardner-Johnson] returns, we’ll face a favorable situation. It adds another dynamic playmaker to our lineup,” Campbell remarked.

Furthermore, the Lions initiated the 21-day practice window for edge rusher James Houston, who had been on injured reserve since Week 2. Similar to Gardner-Johnson, Houston is ineligible for the upcoming game but is now allowed to practice. Campbell mentioned ongoing assessments to determine the optimal timing for the return of the second-year linebacker.