On September 26, the Detroit Lions made two notable additions to their roster. The team officially announced on X (formerly Twitter) that they signed wide receiver Allen Robinson to their active roster and added linebacker Abraham Beauplan to the practice squad.
### Allen Robinson’s Signing
Allen Robinson, a veteran wide receiver, was elevated from the Lions’ practice squad to the active roster ahead of their Week 3 game against the Arizona Cardinals. Robinson had initially joined the practice squad after being cut by the New York Giants on NFL roster cutdown day. Following a brief stint back on the practice squad, the Lions have now permanently moved him to the active roster, increasing their depth at wide receiver.
Robinson is a seasoned player with a strong NFL career, including three 1,000-yard receiving seasons. His most notable year came in 2015 while playing for the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he recorded 80 receptions, 1,400 receiving yards, and a league-high 14 touchdowns, earning him a Pro Bowl selection.
Although his production has diminished in recent years, Robinson’s experience makes him a valuable addition to Detroit’s receiving corps. In his 2024 debut with the Lions in Week 3, Robinson only played one offensive snap and did not participate in special teams. However, his versatility to line up both outside and in the slot will provide Detroit with more flexibility in their offensive schemes.
The Lions now have six wide receivers on their active roster, including Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Kalif Raymond, Isaiah Williams, and Tim Patrick. Robinson’s experience, particularly as a solid blocker, could be a key asset, even if his receiving numbers have declined. In his 2023 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Robinson posted 34 catches for 280 yards, but his contributions went beyond stats as he served as a strong blocker.
Robinson’s production has seen a downturn in recent years. He hasn’t averaged more than 10.8 yards per catch in the last three seasons, and his last 500-yard season came in 2020, where he caught 102 passes for 1,250 yards and 6 touchdowns with the Chicago Bears. Despite his recent struggles, his wealth of experience could make him a reliable depth option for the Lions.
### Abraham Beauplan Joins Practice Squad
With Robinson moving up to the active roster, the Lions filled his spot on the practice squad by signing linebacker Abraham Beauplan. Beauplan was previously with the team during the preseason but was released on August 27 as part of roster cuts.
Beauplan, an undrafted free agent, signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2023. His return to Detroit offers the Lions additional depth at linebacker, especially with potential injuries that could impact their defensive unit as the season progresses.
### Conclusion
The Lions’ moves reflect a strategic approach to bolstering both their offense and defense. By promoting Allen Robinson to the active roster, Detroit gains a seasoned veteran who can contribute as a receiver and blocker. Meanwhile, bringing back Abraham Beauplan to the practice squad ensures they have depth at linebacker, should injuries arise later in the season.
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