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The Lions have signed another former Patriots linebacker

The Lions are a team made up of Patriots connections, and they continue to go to that well when it comes to filling out the roster. That trend extended Wednesday with the signing of linebacker Trevor Bates.

To make room for Bates, the Lions cut tight end DeAndre Goolsby.

Bates, 24, spent his second year in the league last season on the practice squads of the Patriots and Giants. That means he spent time with new Lions linebackers Jonathan Freeny, who comes from New England; Devon Kennard, who arrives from New York.

He also played for new Lions coach Matt Patricia, who was New England's defensive coordinator last season.