Lions Promote Eric Lee, Cut Andrew Donnal

Eric Lee landed on his third practice squad in as many years when the Lions stashed him on theirs after the Patriots deemed the edge defender unworthy of a roster spot after the preseason. But Lee will return to a 53-man roster this week.

The Lions promoted Lee to their active roster on Saturday and will waive offensive lineman Andrew Donnal to make room, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press tweets.

Lee spent his rookie year on the Texans’ practice squad and was on the Bills’ 10-man taxi unit in 2017 before the Patriots added him to their active roster. The Pats used Lee as a starter in five games during their most recent AFC title season, and he made a bit of an impact. Lee registered 3.5 sacks for the Pats last season. He also played in all three of New England’s playoff games.

Detroit will once again be without Ziggy Ansah, who has missed the past two games because of a shoulder injury. However, Ansah remains on the active roster. The Lions clearly hope their top defensive end will be able to suit up again soon.

Donnal spent time on the Rams’ and Ravens’ active rosters from 2015-17, starting six games in St. Louis and Los Angeles from 2015-16. He did not play in a Lions game this season.

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