Lions steal a former division rival to provide much-needed pass-rush depth

The Detroit Lions have finalized their practice squad ahead of their 2025 season opener against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.

The Lions added edge-rusher Andre Carter II as the final addition to the practice squad.

Carter was known for being a dominant defender during his collegiate career with the Army Black Knights. In three seasons with Army, Carter recorded 95 total tackles, 19.5 sacks, and two interceptions. In his final season, he made 15.5 sacks, which was the second-most in the country behind former Alabama star Will Anderson Jr.

Carter started his career with the division-rival Minnesota Vikings, signing as an undrafted free agent in 2023. He appeared in 12 games with the Vikings, where he played mostly on special teams, recording two tackles.

Last season, Carter appeared in three games with the Las Vegas Raiders, recording a combined sack, one tackle, and a quarterback hit.

Lions could call on Andre Carter II if injuries hit the pass rush

Carter showed promise during the preseason with the Raiders this summer. He played in all three of the team's preseason games, collecting two sacks and seven quarterback pressures. Despite his flashes shown in the preseason, the Raiders waived Carter last week.

Carter joins a Lions pass-rush group that includes Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport as the starters. Al-Quadin Muhammad, Pat O'Connor, and Tyrus Wheat are currently listed as reserve players. If an injury occurs, Carter would likely be the first option off the practice squad to join the 53-man roster.

The other edge-rusher on the Lions practice squad is Isaac Ukwu. Last season with the Lions, Ukwu appeared in two games, recording three tackles.

Defensive lineman Keith Cooper, defensive tackle Myles Adams, safety Erick Hallett, linebacker Anthony Pittman, and safety Loren Strickland round out the list of defenders on the Lions' practice squad.