By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions have parted ways with cornerback DiCaprio Bootle, reaching an injury settlement after placing him on injured reserve earlier this month, the team confirmed Sunday.
Bootle, who signed with Detroit on July 18, saw his chance cut short when he exited an August 13 practice with a lower-leg injury. The very next day, ahead of joint sessions with the Miami Dolphins, the Lions placed him on IR.
Before the setback, Bootle was putting together a strong preseason. The former Kansas City Chiefs defensive back, who earned a Super Bowl ring with the team in 2022, logged 36 snaps in the Hall of Fame Game and another 22 against the Atlanta Falcons. Across those appearances, he recorded three tackles and flashed his physical play style.
Bootle’s NFL story has been one of resilience. After going undrafted out of Nebraska in 2021, he carved out a role by grinding through practice squads, eventually earning promotions to active rosters. He’s managed to appear in at least three games every year since entering the league, including stops with the Chiefs, Carolina Panthers, and Los Angeles Chargers.
In total, Bootle has suited up for 22 career games, notching 28 tackles and a pair of pass breakups. Much of his impact has come on special teams, where his energy stood out.
While his release clears one decision for Detroit, tougher choices loom. By Tuesday, all NFL teams must finalize their rosters at 53 players, meaning more moves are on the horizon.