Detroit Lions bolster their defensive line, claiming two players off waivers and moving to finalize more roster plans ahead of Week 1
The Detroit Lions added two defensive linemen to their roster on Wednesday, claiming Tyler Lacy off waivers from the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tyrus Wheat from the Dallas Cowboys. Lacy, a 2023 fourth-round pick, started eight games at defensive tackle for the Jaguars last season and posted two tackles for loss. Wheat, who signed with Dallas as an undrafted free agent in 2023, appeared in eight games and totaled 14 tackles for the Cowboys in 2024.
The Lions entered the day with three open spots on their 53-man roster and created a fourth by trading wide receiver Tim Patrick to the Jaguars for a 2026 sixth-round pick. They also plan to sign ex-Jaguars safety Daniel Thomas once he passes his physical, adding another veteran presence to the mix as they approach Week 1.
Lacy and Wheat give Detroit important depth at one of its thinnest positions. The Lions kept nine defensive linemen at final roster cutdown, with Roy Lopez, Pat O’Connor, Al-Quadin Muhammad, Mekhi Wingo and Chris Smith backing up starters Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, DJ Reader and Tyleik Williams. Injured linemen Alim McNeill and Josh Paschal are expected to return later in the year, which could further stabilize the unit.
On the roster-building side, Detroit began shaping its practice squad on Wednesday, re-signing veterans Tom Kennedy and Trystan Colon to the 16-player unit and expected to re-sign several more players who cleared waivers.
What it means for the Lions: adding Lacy and Wheat strengthens the interior and edge depth, giving the rotation more flexibility and rest options for a front that will lean on young stars and veteran contributors alike. The continued refinement of the practice squad also suggests Detroit is focused on maintaining competition and depth without sacrificing future flexibility.
Additional context: This sequence of moves signals a proactive approach by the Lions to fortify the defensive front while preserving veteran presence and future-pick flexibility. If McNeill and Paschal return as hoped, Detroit should enter Week 1 with a deeper, more versatile defensive line and a clearer path for Daniel Thomas to contribute on the back end.
Summary takeaways:
– Lions claim Tyler Lacy (DT) from Jaguars and Tyrus Wheat (DL) from Cowboys.
– Tim Patrick traded to Jaguars for a 2026 sixth-round pick; Daniel Thomas likely to sign after physical.
– Nine defensive linemen on 53-man roster; McNeill and Paschal expected back later.
– Practice squad expanded and will include additional signings from players who cleared waivers.
– Moves position Detroit to be more competitive upfront as Week 1 approaches.
Note: If you’d like, I can add a brief insights box with potential matchups and how Lacy/Wheat might fit into specific defensive packages.