The Detroit Lions released a pair of players in its Friday roster moves, including former second-round NFL draft pick Levi Onwuzurike. Detroit also released recent seventh-round NFL draft pick and practice squad member Tyre West.
There could be some roster gymnastics at play here from Detroit. As Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press points out
, vested veterans on Week 1 rosters have their salaries guaranteed.By releasing Onwuzurike, the Lions could now re-sign Onwuzurike to their practice squad and make him a game day elevation. That would avoid Onwuzurike's salary from becoming fully guaranteed while potentially bringing back a player that was expected to play a rotational role on the Lions' defense.
Lions announce roster moves: Released DE
Levi Onwuzurike. Released DL Tyre West from the Practice Squad. pic.twitter.com/zOQ0GHS49H
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) September 11, 2026
Onwuzurike has battled injuries throughout his career. The 6-foot-3, 304-pound defensive lineman missed all of last season with a torn ACL. Onwuzurike also didn't play in 2022 because of a back injury.
In his career, Onwuzurike has appeared in 42 games and started 10, registering 68 tackles (35 solo), 16 quarterback hits, four tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, two passes defended and one forced fumble.
West totaled 23 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, four sacks, one forced fumble and one pass defended last season at Tennessee. In his college career, West tallied 65 tackles, 20.5 tackles for loss, 10 sacks and two forced fumbles with the Vols.
For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a like. Follow Josh on X, @JoshOnLions
This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Detroit Lions release pair of players in Friday roster moves
