It seems inevitable that the Lions will soon sign Tim Patrick to their 53-man roster, and five players may be feeling the pressure as a result.
The Detroit Lions have been in need of a larger receiver.
The hope that Josh Reynolds, who Dan Campbell specifically mentioned during the preseason as playing a crucial role, could fulfill that need internally has proven misguided.
To bolster their options, the Lions added Tim Patrick and Allen Robinson to the practice squad.
Patrick was activated for last Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he played more snaps than anticipated—33 in total—recording two receptions for 12 yards.
As a member of the practice squad, Patrick is at risk of being signed by another team looking to add him to their active roster, should he choose that route.
The Lions have the option to elevate him from the practice squad two more times before needing to officially place him on the 53-man roster, but it’s likely they won’t delay that decision much longer.
In straightforward terms, someone currently on the 53-man roster will need to be released to create space for Patrick.
This move could happen soon, especially considering Campbell’s comments on Monday that hint at imminent changes.