By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions have officially released cornerback Stantley Thomas-Oliver under an injury settlement.
It’s been a rough stretch for the 27-year-old, who began training camp on the Non-Football Injury list and then suffered a hamstring injury just a day later in Allen Park. His 2023 season with Detroit was limited—he played in only one game, logging five snaps on special teams.
Originally a seventh-round draft pick by the Carolina Panthers in 2020, Thomas-Oliver appeared in 25 games across three seasons there. He also had short stints with the New York Giants and most recently suited up for the Birmingham Stallions in the UFL before returning to the NFL.
Meanwhile, the Lions got a bit of good news at practice Saturday. Several key defenders returned, including Alex Anzalone (hamstring), Tyleik Williams (personal reasons), Al-Quadin Muhammad (undisclosed), Ennis Rakestraw (chest), and Roy Lopez (foot). All but Anzalone participated fully in team drills.
However, Kerby Joseph (undisclosed) remained absent from the session, and Ian Kennelly (shoulder) missed his second straight day.
Detroit will practice Monday and Tuesday before heading to Canton, Ohio for the Hall of Fame Game against the Los Angeles Chargers, kicking off at 8 p.m. Thursday.