Lions make the first of many notable roster moves on Thursday

Here we go. We knew this day would come when the Detroit Lions would have to start making some open roster sports for the returns of C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Jason Cabinda, James Houston and Alim McNeil. The Lions made some moves on Thursday to start opening up those spots. Here's what they did: 

Waived Chase Lucas and Trevor Nowaske

To start things off, the Lions parted ways with Lucas and Nowaske to open up two roster spots. The Lions are reportedly hoping to get both back on the practice squad. They may miss out on Nowaske though. 

Nowaske was nearly poached off the Lions practice squad to start November. If that team that was interested then is still interested, they can make claim for him and he's there's. If Lucas hits waivers, I would expect the Lions to make room on their practice squad for him.

Activated Jason Cabinda

Lions fullback Jason Cabinda has been out with an injury since Week 3. He was designated to return to practice last week and the Lions feel good enough about his health to get him activated. He has no injury designation, so he should play Saturday. This will put an end to the Malcolm Rodriguez or Sam LaPorta playing fullback and could open things up even more in the run game. 

Plenty of moves are coming

Get ready for more moves to happen this year. The Lions still have to find a spot for the following players:

• C.J. Gardner-Johnson
• James Houston
• Alim McNeil
• Michael Badgley
• Possibly Bruce Irvin

We'll keep you updated on everything they do as the news comes in.