Photo: Junfu Han ~ USA TODAY NETWORK
ALLEN PARK, Mich. ~ The Detroit Lions received difficult injury news as they finalized their roster for the start of the regular season. Defensive backs Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph will begin the year on the physically unable to perform list, sidelining two key pieces of Detroit’s secondary.
Detroit also announced that center Seth McLaughlin will step into the starting lineup following the injury to Cade Mays, who was placed on injured reserve. McLaughlin’s promotion comes after a strong training camp and preseason, while rookie linebacker Jimmy Rolder avoided a season-ending trip to injured reserve and remains on the active roster.
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(CONTINUED) The Lions also trimmed their roster by moving on from several players who competed for spots throughout training camp. Tight end Tyler Conklin, quarterback Luke Altmeyer and wide receiver Greg Dortch were among the cuts as Detroit put the finishing touches on its 53-man roster. Each player showed flashes during the preseason but was ultimately unable to earn a long-term role.
Cornerback Nick Whiteside was also released as the Lions worked to balance depth across the roster. While the cuts mark the end of their time in Detroit for now, practice squad opportunities could remain available. With the roster largely set, the Lions now turn their attention to the regular season and the challenge of overcoming early injuries while integrating new contributors into key roles.
