Key Highlights
- Detroit Lions sign veteran cornerback Kendall Fuller to the practice squad.
- Fuller was a Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2019.
- The Lions are dealing with injuries and shortages in their secondary due to multiple players going down.
- The Lions also waived safety Loren Strickland, re-signed Kingsley Eguakun and Chris Smith to the practice squad.
Reinforcements on the Horizon for Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions have made a significant move in addressing their depleted secondary by adding veteran cornerback Kendall Fuller to the practice squad. The 30-year-old former Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs brings valuable experience and depth to an already struggling secondary.
Fuller’s Journey with the Chiefs
Kendall Fuller, a third-round draft pick out of Virginia Tech, spent his first two seasons with the Washington Commanders. He made a significant impact in 2017 when he recorded four interceptions and earned a Super Bowl ring after the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Philadelphia Eagles in 2019.
Fuller’s time with the Chiefs was marked by consistency; he started all 15 games in his first season, contributing 82 tackles, 12 pass defenses, and two interceptions. His performance earned him a four-year contract to return to Washington before being traded back to the Dolphins for the 2024 season.
Challenges with Miami Dolphins
The transition to Miami was not without its challenges. Fuller suffered multiple concussions in a short period, leading to his release by the Dolphins in February. Despite his recent struggles, his experience and leadership could prove crucial for the Lions’ struggling secondary.
“We needed to bring in someone with Fuller’s experience,” said an anonymous Lions spokesperson. “He brings a lot of know-how and can contribute immediately.” The Lions signed another veteran cornerback, Tre Flowers, just two weeks ago, further emphasizing their commitment to bolstering their defensive lineup.
Team Adjustments
The signing of Fuller comes as the Lions continue to navigate through an injury crisis in their secondary. Terrion Arnold, D.J. Reed, Avonte Maddox, Khalil Dorsey, and Ennis Rakestraw are all out for various reasons, creating a significant gap that needs filling.
Other moves on Tuesday included waiving safety Loren Strickland and re-signing offensive lineman Kingsley Eguakun and defensive lineman Chris Smith to the practice squad.
The Lions’ efforts reflect their ongoing attempts to secure depth across multiple positions as they prepare for upcoming games against formidable opponents like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Strickland, who had been on the practice squad since October, made appearances in seven games last season solely on special teams. His return could be a temporary solution if he is not claimed by another team through waivers.
Future Outlook for Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions’ decisions reflect their strategic approach to maintaining a competitive roster despite ongoing injuries and personnel changes. The addition of Fuller, combined with other moves, underscores the importance of depth and experienced players in addressing immediate needs on the field.
“We’re focused on ensuring we have the best possible team for our upcoming games,” stated Lions head coach Dan Campbell. “Kendall’s presence will certainly add value to our practice squad and provide us with another option when needed.”
As the NFL season progresses, the Lions will face tough challenges both offensively and defensively. Fuller’s signing represents a step towards addressing their current vulnerabilities and preparing for future games against strong opponents.
