The Detroit Lions discovered a hidden gem in rookie safety Loren Strickland, who impressed enough to earn a spot on the 53-man roster despite being an undrafted rookie out of Ball State. However, after failing to break into the defensive rotation and exclusively contributing on special teams, Strickland’s time in Detroit appears to be winding down. The Lions announced on Wednesday that they had waived the rookie safety, with USA Today’s Jeff Risdon suggesting that the move could pave the way for new additions.
“The recent signings of linebackers Jamal Adams and Ezekiel Turner, along with the pressing need for reinforcements due to the injury-plagued Detroit defense, made waiving Strickland necessary,” Risdon noted.
Lions Have Future Plans for Strickland
Strickland, 24, played in six games for the Lions, contributing 71 snaps on special teams but none on defense. Despite his limited role, Risdon speculated that Strickland could remain a part of Detroit’s long-term plans.
“If he clears waivers, Strickland is likely to return to Detroit’s practice squad,” Risdon wrote. “His physicality as a safety and his value on special teams make him a developmental asset for the Lions.”
Defensive Reinforcements Ready to Contribute
In a significant move to bolster their defense, the Lions signed former All-Pro Jamal Adams this week to help address the team’s growing injury concerns, including linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez’s absence. Adams expressed enthusiasm about joining the physical Lions defense and vowed to do whatever it takes to contribute.
“They’ve been kicking everybody’s [expletive]” Adams remarked, per the Detroit Free Press. “I’m fortunate to be on a team that’s rolling, and I’ll do whatever I can to help.”
Head coach Dan Campbell acknowledged the influx of new talent and hinted at potential roles for the newly signed players in Thursday’s crucial matchup against the Green Bay Packers.
“We’ve brought in Jamal and Kwon Alexander, Myles Adams, and Jonah Williams,” Campbell said on 97.1 The Ticket. “We’re going to assess how we can use these guys, what gives us the best chance to win. There may be a place for Jamal—today will be crucial for figuring that out.”
With a commanding 11-1 record, the Lions lead the NFC and are tied with the Kansas City Chiefs for the NFL’s best record. As they aim for the franchise’s first-ever No. 1 overall seed in the modern playoff format, the Lions face a tight race with the Minnesota Vikings, who trail at 10-2.
