On Thursday, the Detroit Lions announced two roster moves ahead of their Week 4 practice.
They signed veteran wide receiver Allen Robinson to the active roster and added linebacker Abraham Beau plan to the practice squad.
Following the placement of Derrick Barnes and Marcus Davenport on injured reserve and the signing of wide receiver Tim Patrick earlier this week, the Lions had an open roster spot, which they have now filled with Robinson.
Robinson initially joined the Lions’ practice squad after roster cuts, as the team sought additional depth at wide receiver, particularly for the WR-X position.
He was elevated from the practice squad for the Lions’ Week 3 matchup against the Cardinals, although he only participated in one snap.
The overall wide receiver group saw fewer snaps than in previous games, highlighting the need for a deeper receiving corps in future matchups.
An 11-year veteran, Robinson is a dependable presence on and off the field, known for his effective run-blocking skills, and he has been on the Lions’ radar for some time.
“Allen Robinson was a player we wanted to sign in free agency a couple of years ago,” Lions general manager Brad Holmes remarked after Robinson joined the practice squad.
“He’s from Detroit, but that’s not the sole reason for his signing.
He’s a player we trust to step in and perform. Right now, the focus is on his acclimation.
It could take a week, two weeks, or even three, but we’re confident in his experience.
They’re good character guys who fit our culture, and it’s just a matter of how quickly they can adjust.”
As for Beauplan, he joined the Lions during training camp and impressed during the preseason.
Many viewed him as a solid candidate for the practice squad, but with seven linebackers already on the active roster, the team prioritized other positions.
With Barnes now on injured reserve, Beauplan returns to the practice squad, adding much-needed depth to the linebacker position.
These roster changes reflect the Lions’ commitment to strengthening their squad amid injuries and ensure they have reliable options moving forward.