As the Detroit Lions prepare for a crucial Thursday Night Football matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, the team has executed a flurry of roster changes aimed at reinforcing depth—especially at tight end.
According to the latest NFL transactions report, Detroit made six roster moves, including multiple additions to the practice squad and a waiver claim.
Lions Add Multiple Skill-Position Players
The Lions have signed:
TE Giovanni Ricci (practice squad)
WR Andrew Armstrong (practice squad)
RB Jabari Small (practice squad)
Detroit also claimed TE Hayden Rucci off waivers from the Miami Dolphins.
Meanwhile, the team released:
DB Tre Flowers
G Netane Muti
Tight End Depth Becomes a Priority
With starter Sam LaPorta likely out for the season due to a week 10 back fracture, Detroit is scrambling to reinforce its tight end room. Backup Brock Wright is also sidelined indefinitely with a serious neck/trachea injury, which head coach Dan Campbell described as potentially “long-term.”
Until reinforcements settle in, the Lions’ depth chart is headlined by Ross Dwelley, Anthony Firkser, and Zach Horton.
Giovanni Ricci Returns to Michigan Roots
Veteran tight end Giovanni Ricci brings familiarity to the region, having played his college career at Western Michigan.
Ricci arrived at WMU as a 6-foot-3, 195-pound wide receiver before developing into a 240-pound tight end and John Mackey Award semifinalist. His standout senior season included:
51 receptions
642 yards
8 touchdowns
First Team All-MAC honors
East-West Shrine Game appearance
Over his 45-game college career, Ricci totaled 98 catches, 1,114 yards, and 11 touchdowns, earning WMU’s Iron Bronco Award for most snaps played in 2019.
After going undrafted, Ricci joined the Carolina Panthers in 2020. He appeared in 36 NFL games over four seasons, earning four starts. His most recent stint came with the Minnesota Vikings during training camp.
More Offensive Depth: Armstrong and Small Join Practice Squad
WR Andrew Armstrong
Armstrong is back in Detroit after a brief return to free agency. The Arkansas product originally signed with the Dolphins before being released in August. During his final college season, he posted impressive numbers:
78 catches
1,140 yards
1 touchdown
He should provide immediate depth and flexibility for the Lions’ scout team offense.
RB Jabari Small
Small returns to Detroit as well, having spent preseason with the Lions before being cut. His re-signing coincides with the departure of Craig Reynolds, who joined the Patriots’ practice squad last week.
Small now slots in as the fifth running back behind Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery, Sione Vaki, and Jacob Saylors. At 5-foot-9 and 198 pounds, Small brings quick burst despite modest timed speed (4.59 40-yard dash). He is still seeking his first NFL appearance.
