The Detroit Lions promoted veteran wide receivers Tim Patrick and Allen Robinson from the practice squad to the game-day roster for Sunday’s matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.
Patrick made two receptions in his Lions debut last week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, while Robinson has yet to play since signing in late August.
Lions coach Dan Campbell emphasized on Friday that Patrick could become a key player in the receiving rotation moving forward.
NFL teams are allowed to elevate a player up to three times from the practice squad before being required to sign them to the 53-man roster.
“If someone tries to poach him from the practice squad, we’ll have a decision to make,” Campbell said. “But for now, we plan to keep elevating and using him. We expect to see more of him this week.
He had a strong week of practice. I really like him. He fits in with us, works hard, and pays attention to details. He’s a big guy, a physical target, and brings toughness, so I’m happy he’s here.”
The Lions’ offense has struggled through the first two weeks, averaging just 18 points per game in regulation.
Last week, they managed only one touchdown in seven red-zone possessions. Both Patrick and Robinson could add size and help as goal-line receivers.
