By Sunday 
The Detroit Lions aren’t standing pat ahead of Sunday’s heavyweight matchup with the Cleveland Browns. Dan Campbell and the front office have made two savvy veteran additions to shore up depth at tight end and along the defensive line.
Ross Dwelley Joins the Tight End Room
After making his Lions debut in Monday night’s thrilling 38-30 win over the Baltimore Ravens, veteran tight end Ross Dwelley is officially in the mix.
Dwelley isn’t expected to take away snaps from rising star Sam LaPorta or steady contributor Brock Wright, but his presence adds valuable insurance and special teams muscle.
In his career, Dwelley has logged 45 receptions for 523 yards and five touchdowns across eight NFL seasons with the 49ers and Falcons.
Against Baltimore, he already saw action on four offensive snaps and twelve on special teams—an early sign of how Detroit plans to use him.
Quinton Jefferson Bolsters the D-Line
Meanwhile, the Lions also inked veteran defensive lineman Quinton Jefferson to their practice squad.
Jefferson has been around the block—drafted by the Seahawks in 2016, with stints in Buffalo, Las Vegas, New York (Jets), and most recently Cleveland. His career totals—206 tackles, 28.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles—speak to his consistency as a rotational defender.
If injuries creep into Detroit’s defensive front, Jefferson could be the first man up. His versatility and veteran savvy give Aaron Glenn another option to lean on.
Why These Moves Matter
Neither signing is flashy, but both fit the Lions’ identity: depth, toughness, and experience. Campbell knows the grind of an NFL season demands a roster that can absorb injuries without skipping a beat.
Against a Browns team known for its defensive ferocity, every extra piece counts. Dwelley strengthens special teams, Jefferson gives the defensive line a ready-made plug-in, and both help ensure Detroit’s momentum keeps rolling.