The Detroit Lions finally used their last open spot on the 53-man roster, moving wide receiver Tom Kennedy up from the practice squad and replacing him there with defensive back Natrone Brooks.
Kennedy’s promotion had been building for a while, even if the timing dragged a bit. Earlier in the week, coach Dan Campbell said Kennedy would be active for Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Saints, and special teams coordinator Dave Fipp later said Kennedy would start at punt returner while also competing for kick return duties.
For Detroit, Kennedy is a familiar piece. He has bounced on and off the roster over the last seven years, and the team has consistently praised his work ethic and his value as depth across the receiver room.
He could very well be the WR4 behind Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Isaac TeSlaa.
Former UFL receiver Tay Martin is also part of that battle.
Brooks brings a different kind of background to the roster shuffle. He spent the last four offseasons with the Atlanta Falcons and appeared in 26 games with one start over the past two seasons. Atlanta initially kept him on its 53-man roster this year, but after the team claimed three players, Brooks was cut and cleared waivers last week.
The 26-year-old has spent the last three seasons in Atlanta as a cornerback, though he switched to safety this offseason. The Lions haven’t said exactly how they plan to use him, but the move gives them some needed depth and insurance at safety with Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph out.
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Lions Suddenly Have A Week 1 Depth Concern Fans Should Watch
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Lions Still Have One Roster Pressure Point Before A Real Super Bowl Push
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It is the sort of pressure point that matters most for a team trying to make a true Super Bowl push, because the offense has already done enough to change the standard in Detroit. The question now is whether the Lions stay patient with what they have or keep their eye on impact options such as Joey Porter Jr. and other defensive upgrades that could raise the ceiling when the games matter most. [Read more 🡒]