The Detroit Lions’ first wave of roster cuts has already produced a stunner: veteran receiver Greg Dortch is being released, according to Tom Pelissero.
That move came as a surprise because Dortch looked settled into the WR4 spot for most of camp and the preseason. With the Lions’ top three receivers ahead of him and his background working with offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, he seemed to have a path to stick. His value on special teams only added to that feeling, especially with his kick and punt return ability.
Still, there was one small clue that the battle might not have been as secure as it looked. Dortch had been getting second reps in the punt return order more often than not.
The player running ahead of him there was veteran Tom Kennedy.
Kennedy’s status on the 53-man roster is still unresolved, but this cut clearly boosts his chances. At 30, he’s one of the staff’s most trusted options and can line up at any receiver spot for Detroit. He was also the only other player competing with Dortch for the punt return job, according to special teams coordinator Dave Fipp.
“You have the returner position with Kennedy and Dortch really at punt returner,” Fipp said. “(Dominic) Lovett fitting into that a little bit, but really probably Kennedy and Dortch right now in my opinion.”
Because Dortch is a veteran, the Lions could still find a way to bring him back since he isn’t subject to waivers. For now, though, this stands as Detroit’s most surprising cut.
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