The Detroit Lions have waived defensive lineman Chris Smith and linebacker Abraham Beauplan as the NFL trade deadline approaches.

These moves come amidst growing speculation about potential trades and roster adjustments for the team.

Chris Smith had been part of the Lions’ practice squad for the past two years.

This season, he played in two games, including the season opener and the recent win over the Green Bay Packers.

Over the course of his appearances, Smith logged 18 defensive snaps and contributed three more on special teams.

Abraham Beauplan, who spent part of the previous year with the Minnesota Vikings, was waived during training camp after signing a futures contract.

He later joined the Lions a few weeks afterward, initially being waived again before landing on their practice squad. In the Lions’ 24-14 victory over the Packers at Lambeau Field, the 24-year-old Beauplan played nine snaps on special teams.

The NFL’s trade deadline is set for 4 p.m. on Tuesday, and the Lions have been heavily linked to rumors.

National media reports have mentioned a possible trade for Cleveland Browns pass rusher Za’Darius Smith.

These latest roster moves are seen as part of the team’s preparations for any trade activity.

One of the roster spots opened by the waivers was used to accommodate the return of wide receiver Jameson Williams, whose two-game suspension has now been lifted.

The second spot remains unfilled, which has led to further speculation that additional moves could be in the works.

Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for updates, with MLive offering an insider texting service for breaking news.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell addressed the team’s trade strategy, noting that while the organization has been exploring all possibilities, decisions will ultimately depend on the opportunities available.

“We’ve made a lot of calls, and Brad (Holmes, the general manager) is working hard on this,” Campbell said. “We still have a little time left, so we’ll see what happens.”

The trade deadline looms on Tuesday evening, and the Lions are keeping their options open as they look to strengthen their roster in time for the second half of the season.