The Detroit Lions have long needed a larger receiver. Head coach Dan Campbell specifically mentioned Josh Reynolds during the preseason as a player whose absence created a significant gap. The idea of filling that role internally proved to be misguided. To address this, the Lions signed veterans Tim Patrick and Allen Robinson to the practice squad as potential reinforcements.
Patrick was elevated to the active roster for last Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he played more than expected, logging 33 snaps and making two catches for 12 yards. After the game, Campbell indicated that Patrick has earned a more prominent role in the Lions’ offense moving forward.
“We liked him,” Campbell said. “It was good to see. It was a positive showing. We want to implement him more in our plans.” He noted Patrick’s size and physicality, as well as his impressive catch radius, suggesting that there’s definitely a place for him on the team.
However, with Patrick on the practice squad, he could be signed by another team if he chooses to pursue that opportunity. The Lions can elevate him from the practice squad two more times before needing to officially sign him to their 53-man roster, but it seems likely they won’t wait that long.
To accommodate Patrick, someone currently on the 53-man roster will need to be released. Based on Campbell’s comments, this could happen soon. Here are five players who might be candidates for cuts to make room for Patrick on the roster.
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