The Detroit Lions announced three transactions to their roster on Thursday afternoon, confirming the signing of defensive back Jammie Robinson off the Chiefs’ practice squad, re-signing safety Loren Strickland to the practice squad, and releasing defensive lineman Keith Cooper in a corresponding move.
Campbell talked about how the Lions’ front office had been keeping tabs on Robinson since the 2023 NFL draft and how they were excited to acquire him.
“We liked him coming out, and (General Manager) Brad (Holmes) and I were talking to him. Brad’s kept an eye on him for a while, always kind of tracked where he’s at, when he’s been available,” Campbell explained. “And so, to be able to poach him and get him for a few weeks here, it’ll be good to get a look at him. But we do like him. He’s aggressive, pretty tough kid, can play special teams. We think there’s nickel, safety flex – probably starting with safety. But we like him, yeah. We’ll get a peek at him.”
Robinson was a hybrid nickel/safety prospect at Florida State and fits the Lions’ scheme in a similar way that Brian Branch does. The Lions met with Robinson at the NFL Combine and got a good look at him at the Senior Bowl (Lions linebackers coach Shaun Dion Hamilton was his position coach at the event), but after selecting Branch in the second round, they had already filled that need.
Now, because Robinson was signed off the Chiefs’ practice squad, they are committed to him for the next three games’ worth of salary, and they plan on using that time to see how he can help them navigate through some difficult times in the secondary.
As for Strickland, he has been on the Lions’ practice squad most of the season, but was recently signed to the active roster for depth. After being inactive last game, he was released earlier this week and now re-joined the Lions practice squad after clearing waivers. He has not used a roster elevation yet this season, but with Branch suspended for this Monday’s game, he could be elevated for depth.
Cooper ends up being the odd man out, as the Lions’ defensive line is full and continues to get healthier; Alim McNeill is expected to be removed from PUP and return to the active roster this week. Cooper remains a very good fit for the Lions’ 4i role, but with Pat O’Connor and Tyler Lacy performing well in the role, as well as Mekhi Wingo and Quinton Jefferson also capable of contributing, the Lions currently have enough bodies at the position.
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