By Moses Joshua 
Detroit trims the roster, regains key defenders, and braces for a must-win showdown against the Giants.
A Surprising Release as Lions Prepare for a Critical Weekend
As the Detroit Lions brace for a pivotal Week 12 clash with the New York Giants, the front office has made a series of late-week roster moves — including parting ways with a linebacker known for his speed and special teams value. The release adds yet another twist to a season in which Detroit has frequently shuffled pieces to compensate for injuries and inconsistency.
On Saturday, the team announced multiple changes, highlighted by the activation of two defensive starters and the departure of veteran linebacker Ty Summers, who had already been cut once this year.
Speedy Linebacker Ty Summers Released Again
Summers’ time in Detroit has been a whirlwind. First waived in October, he returned to the practice squad just 24 hours later. Now, the Lions have released him again to create roster flexibility as they get healthier on defense.
Across his six-year NFL career, Summers has carved out a reputation as a high-energy special teamer, logging 26 special teams snaps over two appearances this season in Detroit. His athletic profile has long been his calling card — he ran a 4.51 in the 40-yard dash coming out of college — and scouts once raved about his intensity.
“High-motor player who makes all the calls for the defense. Play strength is a plus,” NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein once wrote in his scouting assessment. He praised Summers’ ability to anchor against blockers, play low, and contribute both inside and on the edge.
Still, with roster spots tightening and two defensive backs returning, the Lions chose to clear space.
Detroit Regains Key Defenders as Depth Improves
After weeks spent patching together the secondary, Detroit finally sees reinforcements returning. Cornerbacks Khalil Dorsey and D.J. Reed were both activated from injured reserve, a significant boost heading into a matchup where discipline and coverage will be critical.
Reed, especially, has been missed. His versatility and physical style were core components of Detroit’s early-season defensive identity. His return allows coordinator Aaron Glenn to reestablish a more aggressive approach in the back end.
Tight End Depth Becomes Priority After LaPorta’s Season Ends
The loss of star tight end Sam LaPorta, who underwent back surgery this week, prompted another key roster elevation: veteran tight end Anthony Firkser was called up from the practice squad.
Firkser fits the mold of players who typically thrive under Dan Campbell — gritty, flexible, and willing to line up at multiple spots. As Christian Booher of SI.com noted, Firkser brings value as both a tight end and a potential fullback option.
With LaPorta sidelined for the season, offensive coordinator John Morton didn’t sugarcoat the blow.
“I mean he’s a hell of an all-around blocker, receiver, he can do it all… he was really reliable on third down in the red zone,” Morton said. “So, our other guys — all the tight ends have got to step up.”
LaPorta’s absence removes a major weapon from Detroit’s passing game. He was third on the roster in receiving yards (489) and had emerged as a go-to target for Jared Goff in critical situations.
A Must-Win Opportunity Against a Reeling Giants Team
The Lions enter Week 12 needing a win to claw back into the NFC playoff picture after a costly loss last week. Fortunately for Detroit, the Giants arrive in Detroit short-handed: rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart has been ruled out with a concussion, leaving veteran Jameis Winston to start.
Though Winston presents challenges with his arm strength and experience, the Lions have an opportunity to control a struggling opponent and reset the momentum of their season.
With returning defenders, new additions on offense, and a renewed sense of urgency, Detroit’s roster shake-up sets the stage for a defining week. The question now is whether the Lions can capitalize — and whether moves like releasing Summers will pay off when it matters most.