Heading into the final week of the regular season, the Detroit Lions needed to free up some roster space and they did just that. by releasing former Super Bowl champion Bruce Irvin from the practice squad.
Former first-round pick signed with Lions back on November 14 in a move that happened because Detroit was looking for rushing help. During his time with the team, Irvin didn’t play much, but coach Dan Cambell definitely seemed to appreciate Irvin’s veteran leadership.
Campbell admitted releasing Irvin this week wasn’t an easy decision.
“It was tough,” Campbell said via the Detroit Free Press. “Bruce, what a pro. I mean, he is, it’s been a blessing to have him here. I mean, he just brings a whole other perspective. He’s as professional as they come. I mean, just the way he runs his business, everything about him.
Irvin made his Lions debut in a 33-28 win over the Saints in Week 13, where he recorded one sack. Over the next four weeks, Irvin only played in two games and was used sparingly, which apparently didn’t exactly excite him.
“We talked last week, we talked again [Tuesday], had a long conversation and so right at that point, he just couldn’t fully commit,” Campbell said. “And he has things to do too, and so it’s difficult. It’s just one of those, at this point it wasn’t going to work. But he’s a real stud.”
Based on his reaction on social media, there doesn’t appear to be any hard feelings between Irvin over the outing.
This release means that Irvin will now have the chance to sign with a new team.
The 36-year-old played on six teams during his 12-year career, including three stints with the Seahawks. Irvin was picked 15th overall by Seattle in the 2012 NFL Draft and he ended up winning a Super Bowl with them in his second year in the league.
The Lions also released defensive lineman Isaiah Buggs. The team had to create some roster space with Alim McNeill and CJ Gardner-Johnson both expected to be activated from injured reserve this week.
