Hours before the Detroit Lions take the field in Green Bay, the team made a change to the bottom of the active roster. The Lions signed defensive tackle John Atkins from the practice squad.
In the corresponding move, Detroit released rookie wideout Tom Kennedy.
Atkins has been with the Lions since last season. Most of that time has been on the practice squad, but he did make his NFL debut as a rookie against the Minnesota Vikings in December. He played in the preseason but did not make enough of an impression to earn a spot on the initial 53-man roster.
With Da’Shawn Hand and Mike Daniels both injured, the move makes sense from a depth perspective along the defensive line.
Kennedy is subject to waivers, which will be processed on Tuesday. If the undrafted rookie and former lacrosse standout clears waivers, he can re-sign with the Lions practice squad.
