The Detroit Lions announced roster moves ahead of their Week 14 matchup with the Chicago Bears.
For Sunday's game, the Lions elevated offensive lineman Michael Niese from the practice squad.
It appears the team did not elevate veteran Bruce Irvin this week.
Last week, Irvin played 11 defensive snaps and recorded a sack against Saints quarterback Derek Carr.
The veteran defensive lineman expressed appreciation for Detroit's coaching staff allowing him time to get into football shape before having him make his debut.
“At this point of my career, this stuff is like riding a bike,” Irvin said, via Pro Football Talk. “I’ve been doing it for so long. It’ll come back. I’m just happy they didn’t rush me and try to get me out there as soon as I got here. They gave me time, let my body adjust, get in football shape. And, you know, it showed today.”
Center Frank Ragnow was unfortunately ruled out against the Bears, forcing the coaching staff to come up with their ninth different starting combination this season for a highly regarded unit.
Value of new cornerback Kindle Vildor
This week, the former Bears defensive back was signed from the Lions practice squad to the 53-man active roster.
Head coach Dan Campbell was asked this week what Vildor brings to the table.
"Well, we’ve played against him. So, we’ve been able to watch him. Crossover tape that actually, have had to go against him, so always liked the type of athlete that he was, the competitor that he is," said Campbell. "He really fits what we do. He’s – because he can do a little bit of everything. He’s tough, he’ll tackle, so we play him in a variety of coverages. He’s a smart, crafty guy. He’s got cover skills, and so look, it’s an opportunity to get up and let him compete a little bit and see where it goes.”
Colby Sorsdal cross-training
With Graham Glasgow likely playing center, Detroit's rookie lineman is expected to play at right guard against the Bears.
Detroit's coaching staff is comfortable playing the former fifth-round pick all over the offensive line, despite his struggles against the Packers on Thanksgiving.
“We’ve been cross-training him all training camp and so far this season. I think if you probably looked at it, maybe he’s lined up on the right side a little bit more than the left side over the course of that time, but he’s getting a lot more comfortable on playing interior football," said Ben Johnson. "It really doesn’t matter which side he’s on.”
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