The Detroit Lions have made roster changes ahead of their Week 14 game against the Chicago Bears.
The Lions promoted offensive lineman Michael Niese from the practice squad for Sunday’s game.
It appears that veteran Bruce Irvin was not promoted this week.
Irvin had 11 defensive snaps and a sack against Saints quarterback Derek Carr last week.
The veteran defensive lineman thanked Detroit’s coaching staff for giving him time to get into football shape before making his debut.
“At this point in my career, it’s like riding a bike,” Irvin told Pro Football Talk. “I’ve been doing it for a long time.” It will return. I’m just relieved they didn’t rush me out there as soon as I arrived. They gave me time to adjust my body and get into football shape. And, you know, it came out today.”
Centre Unfortunately, Frank Ragnow was ruled out against the Bears, forcing the coaching staff to use their ninth different starting lineup this season for a highly regarded unit.
The former Bears defensive back was promoted from the Lions practice squad to the 53-man active roster this week.
This week, head coach Dan Campbell was asked what Vildor brings to the table.
“Well, we’ve already played him. So we’ve been able to observe him. “I’ve had to go against him on crossover tape, and I’ve always liked the type of athlete and competitor he is,” Campbell said. “He’s a perfect fit for what we do.” He’s – because he’s capable of doing a little bit of everything. We use him in a variety of coverages because he’s tough and will tackle. He’s a cunning, astute individual. He’s got cover skills, so take advantage of the opportunity to get up and let him compete a little.
With Graham Glasgow expected to play centre, Detroit’s rookie offensive lineman is expected to start at right guard against the Bears.
Despite his struggles against the Packers on Thanksgiving, Detroit’s coaching staff is comfortable using the former fifth-round pick all over the offensive line.
“We’ve been cross-training him throughout training camp and this season.” “If you look at it, I think he’s probably 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 playing interior football,” Ben Johnson said. “It really doesn’t matter which side he’s on.”
