The Lions have claimed linebacker Kasim Edebali off waivers from the Broncos and waived defensive end George Johnson, the club announced today.
Edebali, 28, had appeared in nine games for Denver this season, but hadn’t made a dent on defense, as he’d seen only 55 defensive snaps on the year. His real action had come on special teams, where he’d played on more than 60% of the Broncos’ snaps. Detroit general manager Bob Quinn has shown a willingness to pay for special teams prowess in the past, and Edebali comes cheap — he’s only due about $400K for the remainder of the 2017 campaign.
Johnson, meanwhile, leaves the Lions after only 24 hours, as the club has just re-signed him on Monday. Detroit has employed Johnson at various points during his career, including his career season in 2014 when he posted six sacks. Injuries and ineffectiveness have marred Johnson’s recent output, but given his familiarity with the Lions’ defense, it wouldn’t be surprise to see him back in Detroit at some point later this season.