In a move that indicates the team is getting a healthy return to the defensive lineup, the Detroit Lions released veteran linebacker David Long on Tuesday.
Long, 28, spent five weeks with the Lions after coming from the Miami Dolphins. The off-ball backer started one game, the Thanksgiving win over the Bears, and saw action on defense in three others. Long only played on special teams in the Week 16 rematch against the Bears.
In total, Long recorded seven tackles, one TFL and recovered one fumble.
With Jalen Reeves-Maybin already into his 21-day activation window, the move is a sign that Long’s services are no longer needed by the Lions.
Detroit also brought back wide receiver/kick returner Maurice Alexander to the practice squad.