Lions Make 7 Roster Moves Ahead of Texans Game, Including Signing Shane Zylstra…..

DETROIT, MI – In a move that is sure to shake up the roster as the Detroit Lions prepare for their upcoming matchup with the Houston Texans, the team has made a series of roster moves, including the signing of tight end Shane Zylstra. The Lions, currently positioned as one of the NFL’s more promising teams in the NFC, have been carefully managing their roster all season to maximize their playoff chances. As they look ahead to their Week 10 clash with the Texans, these moves reflect both short-term adjustments and long-term strategic decisions aimed at bolstering both the offense and special teams.

1. Signing of Shane Zylstra: A Familiar Face Returns

Perhaps the most eye-catching of the moves is the signing of tight end Shane Zylstra, who is returning to the team after a brief stint away. Zylstra had previously been a part of the Lions’ practice squad and has familiarity with the system that head coach Dan Campbell and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson run.

Background on Zylstra: Zylstra, 27, first joined the Lions in 2021 as an undrafted free agent out of Concordia University in Minnesota. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 245 pounds, Zylstra has always been a versatile player with the ability to contribute both in the passing game and as a blocker. He made a modest impact during his first season with the Lions, appearing in a few games and catching a touchdown. His knowledge of the playbook and his connection with the Lions’ quarterbacks made him a valuable asset during training camp, even though he was waived in the final roster cuts.

In 2023, Zylstra spent time with the practice squad and had shown promise during the preseason, prompting the Lions to re-sign him for added depth at the tight end position. With starting tight end Sam LaPorta continuing to impress in his rookie campaign, Zylstra’s role could be to offer additional depth and flexibility, especially as the Lions look to maintain offensive consistency through a grueling season. Zylstra has a strong background in both blocking and receiving, making him a reliable option in various formations and situations.

Why Zylstra? With the Lions’ offense continuing to evolve, particularly with the development of LaPorta and the emergence of rookie wide receiver Jameson Williams, adding Zylstra back into the fold could provide an extra weapon to keep opposing defenses guessing. While Zylstra may not be a major focal point in the passing game, his blocking ability gives the Lions a more complete tight end room, and he could be a valuable asset on special teams as well.

Head coach Dan Campbell emphasized Zylstra’s familiarity with the offense and his potential to be a key contributor in the red zone. “Shane is a guy who has always worked hard and knows our system well. He has the ability to help us in a variety of ways, whether it’s catching passes, blocking in the run game, or even contributing on special teams,” Campbell said in a statement.

2. Wide Receiver Depth: The Lions Add More Speed

In addition to Zylstra’s signing, the Lions made two significant moves involving their wide receiver corps, one of which is the promotion of undrafted free agent receiver, Antoine Green, to the active roster. Green, who was initially signed to the practice squad, has impressed coaches with his speed, route running, and ability to stretch the field.

Why Green? Green, a former University of North Carolina standout, is known for his ability to create separation on deep routes. At 6’1″ and 195 pounds, he has the physical tools to be a vertical threat in the Lions’ high-powered offense. His promotion to the active roster signals Detroit’s intention to add more speed to their receiving group, especially as they look to break open defenses with playmakers like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Williams, and now Green. Green could potentially make an impact as a rotational player, especially in passing situations where the Lions aim to stretch the defense horizontally and vertically.

With the return of Williams from his suspension and Green’s emergence, the Lions are now poised to have one of the fastest wide receiver corps in the league. Green’s promotion will provide additional depth and flexibility for quarterback Jared Goff, who has developed chemistry with St. Brown, but will benefit from having more options at his disposal.

3. Defensive Line Shuffle: Adding Depth for the Push to the Playoffs

As the Lions look to strengthen their defense, particularly their pass rush, the team has made some key moves on the defensive line. Detroit has activated defensive lineman Isaiah Buggs from the injured reserve list. Buggs, who was placed on IR earlier in the season due to a lingering knee issue, has been a reliable rotational piece along the Lions’ front seven in past seasons. His return to the active roster gives Detroit much-needed depth as they prepare to face a formidable Houston Texans offense led by quarterback CJ Stroud, who has shown impressive form this season.

The Importance of Buggs: Buggs, a former Alabama standout, has proven to be a solid contributor both in the run game and as an interior pass rusher. His ability to clog up running lanes and provide pressure on the quarterback will be invaluable for the Lions as they look to continue their momentum in the NFC North. With the Texans’ offensive line proving susceptible to interior pressure this season, Buggs could be a crucial asset in disrupting the Texans’ rhythm.

How Buggs Fits: The Lions’ defensive front has been effective at times, particularly with the strong play of Aidan Hutchinson on the edge, but Buggs’ presence adds more balance to the interior pass rush. His return could help the Lions in a variety of defensive looks, allowing coordinator Aaron Glenn to get more creative in the game plan.

4. Special Teams Adjustments: Kicking and Coverage Upgrades

In addition to moves made for the offense and defense, the Lions also took action to bolster their special teams unit ahead of the Texans game. Detroit has made two notable moves to improve their coverage units and kicking depth.

First, the team has signed punter Jack Fox to a long-term extension, securing one of the league’s top punters for the future. Fox has been instrumental in the Lions’ field position battles over the past several seasons, and his ability to pin opponents deep in their own territory has proven to be a game-changer. Head coach Dan Campbell spoke highly of Fox’s consistency and leadership in the locker room: “Jack is a key player for us. He’s been a steady performer, and his ability to flip the field with his punting is invaluable in tight games. He’s earned the chance to be with us for the long haul.”

Second, the Lions made a small move in their special teams unit by promoting Khalil Dorsey from the practice squad to provide additional depth in the coverage game. Dorsey, a former cornerback, has impressed the coaching staff with his tackling ability and speed on coverage units. With the Texans boasting explosive returners, Dorsey’s presence could be key to limiting any big returns that could flip momentum.

5. Roster Cuts: Clearing Space for New Additions

In order to make room for the newly signed players, the Lions had to part ways with a few players. Running back Greg Bell and defensive back Jerry Jacobs were waived as a result of these roster changes.

Bell’s Departure: Bell, a rookie running back out of San Diego State, had been a long shot to make the roster after the Lions signed veteran back David Montgomery in the offseason and drafted Jahmyr Gibbs. Bell had spent most of the season on the practice squad and had not shown enough during preseason games to earn a spot on the active roster. His departure will likely go unnoticed unless an injury crisis strikes at the running back position.

Jacobs’ Release: Jacobs, a former undrafted free agent, was part of the Lions’ secondary depth but had struggled to break into a starting role this season. With the emergence of players like Brian Branch and the consistent play of the veteran cornerbacks, Jacobs had found himself buried on the depth chart. His release was likely a move to create space for the additional bodies the Lions needed for their special teams and depth positions.

6. A Look Ahead to the Texans Game

With the roster moves complete, the Lions now turn their attention fully to the Week 10 matchup with the Houston Texans. The Texans, led by rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, have been a surprise team in the AFC this season, exceeding expectations and remaining competitive in a tough conference. The Lions will need to be at their best to keep up their momentum and remain a serious contender in the NFC playoff race.

Key factors for Detroit will be containing Stroud, who has shown impressive poise and accuracy for a first-year quarterback, and taking advantage of Houston’s vulnerabilities on the offensive line. On the offensive side, the Lions will look to continue their balanced attack, mixing explosive pass plays with a strong running game led by Montgomery and Gibbs. With the addition of Zylstra and Green, the Lions now have more tools to exploit the Texans’ defense and build off their offensive successes this season.

Conclusion

As the Detroit Lions prepare for a pivotal game against the Houston Texans, these roster moves highlight the team’s proactive approach to strengthening all areas of the roster. By re-signing Shane Zylstra, adding depth at wide receiver and defensive line, and making adjustments to the special teams unit, the Lions are positioning themselves for success in the final stretch of the season. With strong leadership from Campbell and an improving roster, the Lions are clearly focused on building a team that can compete for both the NFC North title and a deep playoff run.