The Detroit Lions have officially moved on from one of their longest-tenured linebackers, ending a seven-year stint just days after he was elevated for the season opener.
This week, the franchise announced a pair of additions to the practice squad—offensive tackle Devin Cochran and linebacker Monty Rice. To make room, Detroit released Anthony Pittman, who had just been called up for Sunday’s contest against the Green Bay Packers.
Practice Squad Adjustments
As highlighted by USA Today’s Lions Wire, Pittman had already been let go during final roster cuts before rejoining the practice squad. Detroit trusted him enough to use a temporary elevation for Week 1, where he contributed on special teams, his primary role since entering the league.
“Pittman was elevated for the opener in Green Bay and reverted back to the practice squad, but the team ultimately decided to release him instead,” the outlet noted. Over the past few years, Pittman carved out his niche on special teams, appearing in 56 games for the Lions and registering 32 tackles since joining the team in 2019.
Now 28, the linebacker will need to search for another opportunity elsewhere.
New Faces Step In
Detroit may already have a replacement option in Monty Rice, a 2021 third-round selection of the Tennessee Titans. Rice has logged action in 38 career games and tallied 129 tackles to date, bringing more starting experience than Pittman.
Meanwhile, Cochran adds needed depth to an offensive line already dealing with injuries. With starting tackle Taylor Decker sidelined in practice this week due to a shoulder issue, his availability for the upcoming matchup against Chicago remains in doubt.
Defensive Focus Turns to Week 2
After struggling to contain Jordan Love in last week’s loss, the Lions now turn their attention to rookie sensation Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard emphasized that the key will be keeping Williams from creating plays outside the pocket.
“Caleb was excellent Monday night—he extended drives, put points on the board, and gave his team chances with his mobility,” Sheppard said. “We’re very aware of that and we’ll be prepared.”
While Love threw for nearly 200 yards and two scores, Sheppard credited his defense for preventing him from breaking loose on the ground—an issue that has haunted Detroit in past seasons.
“He had just one scramble for four yards,” Sheppard explained. “That’s a positive step for us, especially considering how much he’s hurt us with his legs in the past.”
Would you like me to expand this into a longer 350–400 word feature with a bit more analysis (like Pittman’s impact over the years and what Rice/Cochran bring to the roster), or keep it at this crisp news-report style?
