The Detroit Lions were off on Tuesday, but that didn’t stop them form making some roster moves. Boy did they make some big ones this time. There’s a lot to unpack. Here’s what they did:
Placed Alim McNeill on injured reserve
There’s the biggest one. McNeill collided knees with Aidan Hutchinson on Sunday and while he finished the game, he’s going to have miss some time now. the next four games at least. McNeill will be able to return to the Lions roster for their Week 18 game against the Vikings and the playoffs.
Signed Kindle Vildor to active roster
McNeill going to IR opened up a roster spot. The Lions filled that sport with cornerback Kindle Vildor. The former Bears fifth round pick signed to the Lions practice squad three weeks ago. He has 22 starts under his belt. There’s a chance he could be active against his former team on Sunday.
Released Raymond Johnson from practice squad
Johnson has been on the Lions practice squad since August. He never got elevated during the season and I think the Lions are waiving the white flag on him here. I wouldn’t be shocked if he went back to the Bengals practice squad.
Signed Tyson Alualu and Matt Farniok to the practice squad
The news on Alualu’s signing broke earlier on Tuesday and we have a full writeup on him here.
The Lions also added former Cowboy’s seventh round pick Matt Farniok to their practice squad. Farniok started two games at guard for the Cowboys last year. He’s able to play both guard and center. He spent September through November on the Bears practice squad.