The Detroit Lions have released defensive tackle whom they signed to help cover for DJ Reader in their Week 1 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. Reader is set to make his team debut this weekend against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With Smith’s release, the Lions’ main roster is now back down to 52 players. Smith played eight defensive snaps during the Lions’ 26-20 overtime victory over the Rams on Sunday Night Football, marking his first regular-season game action in the NFL for the 24-year-old. Last year, Smith split his time between the Lions’ practice squad and main roster, making him a strong candidate to return given his familiarity with the team. Smith was elevated to the main roster, along with Kyle Peko from the practice squad, for the opener after Reader was declared inactive.
Smith, a former Harvard and Notre Dame player, recently received praise from fellow defensive lineman Alim McNeill, who commended Smith’s dedication and perseverance in pursuing an NFL career. McNeill noted that Smith has always had the potential, but he only got his first in-season snaps in Week 1.
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