The Detroit Lions are continuing to tweak their roster as the season rolls on, ensuring depth is in place before their Week 4 showdown at Ford Field against the Cleveland Browns. With injuries testing certain positions and the grind of the NFL season already taking a toll, Detroit added reinforcements on both sides of the ball, signing a veteran tight end and a seasoned defensive lineman.
Ross Dwelley Strengthens Tight End Depth
The Lions officially brought tight end Ross Dwelley onto the roster after he made his Detroit debut in Monday night’s 38–30 win over the Baltimore Ravens. Dwelley had been a member of the practice squad, but an opening surfaced when tight end Shane Zylstra landed on injured reserve with an ankle injury.
Dwelley is no stranger to NFL competition. The 29-year-old began his career with the San Francisco 49ers, where he spent six seasons as a dependable depth option. He later spent a year with the Atlanta Falcons before landing in Detroit. Over the course of his eight professional seasons, Dwelley has registered 45 receptions, 523 yards, and five touchdowns.
Against Baltimore, Dwelley’s first action in a Lions uniform was modest—four offensive snaps and a dozen plays on special teams—but his value lies less in statistics and more in reliability. With rookie standout Sam LaPorta and veteran Brock Wright ahead of him on the depth chart, Dwelley is unlikely to see consistent targets in the passing game. However, his experience and ability to contribute on special teams make him an important piece of depth for a Lions squad with postseason aspirations.
Quinton Jefferson Joins the Defensive Line Rotation
In addition to the tight end room, the Lions also made a move to add depth in the trenches. Veteran defensive lineman Quinton Jefferson signed to Detroit’s practice squad after impressing during a workout earlier in the week.
Jefferson, a nine-year pro, entered the league as a fifth-round draft pick by the Seattle Seahawks in 2016. Since then, he has carved out a steady career across several franchises, including the Bills, Raiders, Jets, and most recently the Cleveland Browns. Known for his versatility as both a run defender and interior pass rusher, Jefferson has accumulated 206 career tackles, 28.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles.
At this stage, Jefferson will begin on the practice squad, but his track record suggests he could be elevated to the 53-man roster if the Lions suffer injuries or need additional depth along the defensive front. Given the physical toll of the NFL season, Detroit’s coaching staff likely views him as an insurance policy—someone who can step in and provide immediate production without a steep learning curve.
Looking Ahead
These roster moves may not grab the same headlines as blockbuster trades or marquee signings, but they speak volumes about Detroit’s approach under head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes. Both Dwelley and Jefferson bring veteran savvy, durability, and positional flexibility—qualities that can make a difference in the later stages of the season.
As the Lions prepare to face a Cleveland Browns team powered by one of the league’s most intimidating defensive fronts, having extra reinforcements could prove crucial. Whether it’s Dwelley helping stabilize special teams or Jefferson offering depth on the defensive line, these subtle moves may end up paying significant dividends as Detroit looks to maintain momentum in a competitive NFC.
