David Long stepped in to help the Detroit Lions at linebacker recently, but his time with the team ended after five games. The Lions waived the veteran linebacker following his brief stint.
Long first played for Detroit last month against the Colts, starting one game and appearing in all five. However, his defensive snaps disappeared in last weekend’s win over the Bears.
Long only played 14 snaps on special teams during the game. Despite limited action, he was crucial to the Lions’ injury-riddled defense. Trevor Nowaske returned, and Anthony Pittman rejoined the team last week as a key special teams player and backup linebacker.
Jalen Reeves-Maybin is close to coming back, while Alex Anzalone is nearing his 21-day return window. Head coach Dan Campbell said Anzalone is progressing, but a return this week is unlikely.
Ifeatu Melifonwu played his first game of the season against Chicago, recording four tackles, three pressures, and a sack while contributing heavily from the box. The Lions still have one practice squad elevation available for Jamal Adams.
Long’s defensive role vanished completely against the Bears, and Detroit made linebacker Kwon Alexander inactive for the game.
Jack Campbell, in his second year, has stood out with consistent snaps. Against Chicago, Niemann led with 43 defensive snaps, followed by Nowaske (23), Turner (23), and Pittman (11).
In another move, the Lions brought back wide receiver and returner Maurice Alexander to the practice squad. Alexander has filled in for Kalif Raymond and Khalil Dorsey, who are sidelined.
