The Detroit Lions had to dig deep into their bench and practice squad this season to make up for the plethora of injuries suffered. Kelvin Sheppard and Dan Campbell had to make do with a patchwork of defenders in the backfield, and the defensive unit exceeded expectations amid all these absences. One of those defenders who stepped up when the Lions needed him the most was CB Nick Whiteside. On Tuesday, however, the Lions announced a series of roster moves, which included the release of Whiteside.
Despite his release, Whiteside should remain a candidate to return to Detroit's practice squad if he clears waivers.
Lions Should Try to Sign CB Nick Whiteside to Practice Squad
Whiteside had spent the preseason with the Lions before getting waived and brought back to the practice squad. After the Lions were hit with the injury bug, they signed the former UFL standout to the active roster on Oct. 11. In Week 7 against the Bucs, Whiteside had the best game of his career, finishing with three pass breakups, allowing only one catch in five targets, and receiving an 83.9 defensive grade on Pro Football Focus. He was one of the main reasons why the Lions were able to defeat the red-hot Bucs despite being down multiple defensive starters.
As the Lions started to get healthier, Whiteside's role understandably diminished. He has only played five defensive snaps since then, but has continued to play a role on special teams. For the season, the 25-year-old has played a total of 50 special teams snaps and received an above-average 62.0 grade on PFF.
A young defender with upside who contributes on special teams is a useful player to have on the practice squad. He's familiar with the organization, the defense, and his teammates. So, if he is not claimed off waivers, the Lions would be wise to open up a practice squad roster spot to bring him back.
The Lions have Terrion Arnold, DJ Reed, and Amik Robertson as the presumptive starters, and Avonte Maddox, Khalil Dorsey, and Rock Ya-Sin as the backups on the 53-man roster. Tre Flowers is the only CB on the practice squad, so adding Whiteside into the mix could make some sense.
There is a good chance, however, that the rest of the league also took notice of Whiteside's impressive performance with the Lions. There should be some interest in the Saginaw Valley State alum.