Lions make multiple roster moves ahead of Giants matchup, a huge return and an underrated return for Detroit

The Lions already good defense just got even better

Mike Payton — Detroit Lions Beat Writer
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The Detroit Lions are back home for a nice three-game home stretch that starts by taking on the New York Giants. At this point, every game feels like a must-win as we approach the playoffs.

This is a good time to get healthy. The Lions made a handful of moves on Saturday, and it’s all headlined by the big return they’ll have in their secondary. Here’s what they did:

Activated CB D.J. Reed

Things changed with this one pretty quickly. Just a few weeks ago, Lions head coach Dan Campbell said the Lions expected to get Reed back in early December.

Now, he’s coming back on Sunday, just a week after having his clock started. The Lions already good defense, getting its CB1 back in time for the final stretch makes this group that much better. There’s been no word of a pitch count for him, but we’ll see when game time hits.

Activated Khalil Dorsey

This might not seem like the biggest of deals, but with all the special teams troubles the Lions have had, getting back arguably the best gunner in the league is a huge help.

Plus, they get more cornerback depth, too. This is just an all-around good thing for the Lions. Couple that with Malcolm Rodriguez’s return, and we could see a big turnaround on special teams.

Elevated TE Anthony Firkser from the practice squad

Campbell teased this one on Friday after delivering the big news that Sam LaPorta had back surgery and is likely out for the season. Firkser was with the Lions in 2023 and returned a week ago. He’s a solid blocking tight end who has fullback ability, too. Look for him to get in on some run blocks against a Giants team that struggles against the run.

Waived LB Ty Summers and S Erick Hallet

The problem with returning guys from injury is that you have to make room. We haven’t seen Hallet or Summers play much, but there’s reason to believe both players will be brought back on the practice squad. Hallet is good to have around, and the Lions might see something bigger for Summers in the future.

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