Brad Holmes Explains Greg Dortch Cut, Lions WR Plans

The Detroit Lions started the week with only four wide receivers on their 53-man roster, and General Manager Brad Holmes expressed doubt that the number would remain that small. During a Wednesday post-camp press conference, Holmes acknowledged that the team currently had an unusually small group at receiver after keeping Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Isaac Teslaa, and Tay Martin on the initial roster. However, Holmes also left the door open for the number to change.

Holmes emphasized that the four receivers on the roster currently represented a lighter side of the Lions' depth chart, highlighting the variety of talent available. He stressed that the team wanted to create fierce competition this offseason, which made some difficult decisions necessary. He mentioned that players like Tom Kennedy, who joined the practice squad, remain part of the broader 69-man roster and could be utilized for special teams, particularly as Greg Dortch was no longer with the team.

The surprising move was the release of Greg Dortch, who had shown NFL experience, familiarity with offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, and value as a return specialist. Dortch himself admitted that Detroit's decision to cut him came as a surprise. Holmes explained that the decision was not based on a single deficiency but rather the intention to add as much competition as possible. This approach created more discomfort but also led to harder decisions throughout the offseason.

Holmes also noted that the Lions might not be finished adding talent at the receiver position, given that Kennedy remains close to the team. He mentioned that the Lions could use practice-squad elevations to supplement the position, especially with Kennedy available for special teams, or they could look outside the organization as other teams reshuffle their rosters before Week 1.