Detroit, Michigan, December 3, 2025
The Detroit Lions have signed veteran tight end Ross Dwelley as part of a series of roster moves aimed at strengthening their team. Dwelley, a 30-year-old player with four seasons of NFL experience, joins the Lions during a challenging period marked by injuries in the tight end position. The team also added Giovanni Ricci and Jabari Small to their practice squad while releasing Tre Flowers. These strategic adjustments highlight the Lions’ commitment to enhancing their roster and maintaining competitiveness throughout the season.
Detroit Lions Sign Veteran Tight End with Local Ties Amid Roster Moves
Detroit, Michigan – The Detroit Lions have bolstered their tight end position by signing veteran tight end Ross Dwelley, a move that reflects the team’s ongoing efforts to strengthen their roster. Dwelley, 30, brings valuable experience to the Lions, having played in 29 NFL games over the past four seasons, primarily with the San Francisco 49ers and Atlanta Falcons. His addition comes at a crucial time, as the Lions have faced challenges in their tight end group due to injuries and roster changes.
Alongside Dwelley, the Lions have also signed tight end Giovanni Ricci and running back Jabari Small to their practice squad, while releasing cornerback Tre Flowers. Ricci, 26, has appeared in 36 NFL games over three seasons with the Carolina Panthers, recording nine receptions for 102 yards. Small, 24, adds depth to the running back position, providing the team with additional options in the backfield. These moves illustrate the Lions’ proactive approach to addressing team needs and enhancing their depth chart.
The Lions’ roster adjustments are part of a broader strategy to improve their team dynamics and performance as they progress through the season. The addition of experienced players like Dwelley and Ricci aims to provide leadership and stability in key positions, while the inclusion of Small offers fresh talent to the running back rotation. The Lions’ management continues to evaluate and adjust the roster to ensure competitiveness and address any emerging challenges.
Strategies for Success in Team Dynamics
The Lions’ recent signings signal not only a commitment to improving their on-field performance but also reflect a deeper understanding of team structure. Veteran players like Dwelley come with an understanding of the league, having faced numerous challenges in their careers. This experience can be instrumental in guiding younger teammates and enhancing overall team morale.
Strength in Depth: The Role of Practice Squads
Utilizing the practice squad effectively allows teams to develop talent without exposing them to the waiver wire. By signing players like Giovanni Ricci and Jabari Small, the Lions can groom these individuals to step up when required, creating a pool of talent ready to tackle any challenge. This strategy is vital for enduring a long season, especially with the unpredictability of injuries.
Understanding the Roster Changes
The roster changes are strategic moves aimed at enhancing team resilience. The roster overhaul specifically addresses injuries that have weakened core positions. Continuous evaluation and adjustments are crucial in professional sports; these actions by the Lions demonstrate a commitment to maintaining a competitive edge.
Community and Economic Impact of Professional Sports
The actions of teams like the Detroit Lions have ripple effects throughout the local economy. As the Lions bolster their roster and aim for success, local businesses, from sports bars to merchandise shops, benefit from the increased fan engagement. The pursuit of excellence in sports can indeed spur economic growth in the surrounding community.
Looking Forward: The Path Ahead for the Lions
As the Detroit Lions integrate their new signings into their system, the focus remains on a strong performance in the upcoming games. With veteran leadership from players like Dwelley, the Lions are poised to tackle upcoming challenges head-on. Continued investment in talent, both on and off the field, is essential for the Lions’ success and the broader Detroit economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Ross Dwelley?
Ross Dwelley is a 30-year-old tight end with four seasons of NFL experience, having played for the San Francisco 49ers and Atlanta Falcons. He has appeared in 29 NFL games, contributing both as a receiver and a blocker.
What other roster moves have the Detroit Lions made recently?
In addition to signing Ross Dwelley, the Lions have added tight end Giovanni Ricci and running back Jabari Small to their practice squad, while releasing cornerback Tre Flowers. These moves aim to strengthen the team’s depth and address specific positional needs.
Why are the Lions making these roster changes?
The roster adjustments are part of the Lions’ strategy to enhance team performance and address challenges, such as injuries and depth concerns, as they progress through the season.
Key Features of the Detroit Lions’ Recent Roster Moves
| Player | Position | Experience | Previous Teams | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ross Dwelley | Tight End | 4 Seasons | San Francisco 49ers, Atlanta Falcons | 29 NFL Games Played |
| Giovanni Ricci | Tight End | 3 Seasons | Carolina Panthers | 9 Receptions for 102 Yards |
| Jabari Small | Running Back | Rookie | None | None |
| Tre Flowers | Cornerback | 4 Seasons | Detroit Lions | Released |
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DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.


