The Lions made several roster moves on Tuesday to address recent injuries, including signing cornerback Stantley Thomas-Oliver to their practice squad.
Linebacker Anthony Pittman was elevated from the Jaguars’ practice squad to the active roster, while cornerbacks Carlton Davis and Khalil Dorsey, along with defensive lineman Alim McNeill, were placed on the Reserve/Injured list.
Detroit suffered a loss to Buffalo in Week 15, but these defensive injuries could signal a bigger setback.
Thomas-Oliver, who most recently played for the Giants, has not appeared in an NFL game since 2022 with the Panthers. While it’s unlikely he will make a significant impact on the defense, it’s a reasonable move for the Lions’ front office to give him a chance.
Lions Sign Former Panthers CB Stantley Thomas-Oliver to Practice Squad
Originally drafted in the seventh round of the 2020 NFL Draft by Carolina, Stantley Thomas-Oliver played 25 games over three seasons before moving between various teams. He has been unsigned all year but now finds an opportunity with the Lions due to the team’s current struggles in the secondary.
During his career, Thomas-Oliver registered 17 tackles but was mostly used on special teams. His coverage stats were concerning, giving up a 153.2 passer rating when targeted in 2020 and a 135.4 rating in 2021, highlighting his difficulties in coverage early on.
At just 26 years old and standing six feet tall, Thomas-Oliver still possesses intriguing potential. With the coaching of Dan Campbell and the defensive expertise of coordinator Aaron Glenn, this could be a promising situation for him to develop further. Glenn has gained recognition as one of the NFL’s top defensive coordinators, surrounded by a strong coaching staff, making this a good opportunity for a player seeking a second chance.
To make room for Thomas-Oliver, defensive end Isaiah Thomas was released from the practice squad. If Thomas-Oliver performs well in practice during the final weeks of the season, he could earn a spot at Detroit’s training camp in 2025.
Fortunately for the Lions, they still control their destiny in the NFC and are favorites for the No. 1 seed. They will face the Bears this week and finish the season against the 49ers and Vikings. Although only Minnesota is currently a playoff team, Detroit may have the top seed secured depending on Philadelphia’s performance over the next two weeks.
The Lions’ defense must avoid further injuries, and finding solutions at cornerback will be crucial as the team approaches the final stretch of the season.
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