The Detroit Lions have shaken up their roster ahead of their Week 7 clash with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, making several decisive moves to counteract a growing injury crisis.
Lions Reshape Roster Amid Health Setbacks
In a move that caught many off guard, the Lions released safety Loren Strickland from the active 53-man roster. His exit cleared room for a wave of strategic changes aimed at reinforcing depth across multiple positions. Offensive lineman Kingsley Eguakun and defensive lineman Chris Smith have both rejoined the practice squad, just days after their initial releases.
However, the headline addition is veteran cornerback Kendall Fuller, who now joins the practice squad as Detroit looks to stabilize a battered secondary. Fuller, an experienced defensive back, had been sidelined earlier this season due to multiple injuries—including two concussions and a knee issue—that eventually landed him on injured reserve.
Fuller’s Journey and Career Accomplishments
A third-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft by Washington, Fuller has carved out a solid NFL career marked by consistency and leadership. He spent time with the Kansas City Chiefs from 2018–2019, contributing to their defensive success, before returning to Washington—later renamed the Commanders—for another productive stretch. Most recently, he played 11 games with the Miami Dolphins last season, continuing to demonstrate his resilience and adaptability.
Now entering his 10th professional year, Fuller brings with him over 100 career starts and nearly a decade’s worth of high-level experience. His track record at both the collegiate level (Virginia Tech) and in the NFL makes him an ideal veteran presence for a Lions defense struggling to stay healthy.
Bolstering a Weakened Secondary
Detroit’s secondary has been hit hard in recent weeks, with players like D.J. Reed, Avonte Maddox, and Terrion Arnold all managing injuries. Fuller’s arrival gives the Lions valuable insurance and leadership depth should any of those players remain unavailable.
These calculated roster adjustments underscore Detroit’s determination to remain competitive despite adversity. As they gear up for their meeting with the Buccaneers, Fuller’s experience and football IQ could become critical in steadying the team’s defense and keeping their playoff hopes on track.
