Lions waive UFL star offensive lineman prior to final cuts

With NFL teams looking to maximize the potential and versatility of their rosters, the Detroit Lions got a head start on moving some pieces around before the August 27 cut day deadline by waiving offensive lineman Keaton Sutherland from injured reserve. This gives him an opportunity to sign with another NFL team or join the Lions practice squad.

Sutherland briefly provided reinforcement to a Lions team that continues to deal with injuries extending from the 2024 season.

After a strong showing with the UFL's Birmingham Stallions, Sutherland was signed by Detroit on August 10, only to end up on injured reserve on the 14th. Sutherland, was one of 60 players from the UFL to sign NFL contracts, with the Lions signing eight during this UFL to NFL signing cycle.

Sutherland cut from Lions ahead of deadline

Sutherland's chances of re-joining the Lions on the practice squad are slim to none after not being able to maximize his opportunity due to injuries. Sutherland will be compensated, as the Texas A&M alum will receive a settlement as the team fine tunes their final cuts.

Despite Detroit's slim depth on the offensive line, they've been able to avoid some more serious injuries on the line ahead of the 2025 regular season. The closest scare they'd received so far in training camp came to Graham Glasgow, the team's new starting center and a returning Lions player. But, reports say he'll be good to go in Week 1 after suffering just a minor leg injury.

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The next phase of the Lions push to the regular season will be their matchup on against the Houston Texans. The Lions will then begin their final cuts, which will then be finalized by August 27.

Not-vested players will be placed on waivers, and those players who are not claimed off waivers are eligible to become one of 16 members on the Lions practice squad with the option of having one position for an International Pathway Player.

While Sutherland's journey maybe over right now, the Lions have 10 other players from spring football leagues (UFL, USFL, XFL), looking to finish strong this preseason in hopes of extending their NFL career. Upon final cuts and practice squad allocation, the Lions turn their attention to the regular season, where they open up against the Green Bay Packers on September 7.

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