The Detroit Lions began the work of filling three open roster spots Saturday afternoon.
The Lions made the release of safety Taylor Mays and receiver Jared Haggins official and signed rookie tight end Deon Butler (Central Michigan).
Butler takes the place of Jordan Thompson, who suffered a significant knee injury in Thursday’s preseason loss in Washington and could be headed to the reserved injured list at some point.
Butler caught 30 passes for 424 yards and a touchdown for the Chippewas last year.
Thompson is the second tight end to go down with an injury for the Lions so far in camp.