Detroit Lions Release Hometown Linebacker, Veteran Retires Hours Later
DETROIT — The Detroit Lions announced roster adjustments on Tuesday, but the move unexpectedly turned into the end of a local career. What began as a practice squad shuffle ended in an emotional retirement.
The franchise initially revealed the release of a familiar figure, opening roster space for new additions at linebacker and offensive line. What appeared to be a routine transaction quickly shifted into something far more significant.
That player was linebacker Anthony Pittman, a Detroit native who entered the league with the Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2019. Known for his work ethic, he played 51 games primarily on special teams.
Pittman’s journey was defined by perseverance. After short stints with Washington and Jacksonville, he returned home late last season. Elevated for Week 1 against Green Bay, he logged 21 snaps on special teams in the opener.
Detroit Lions Release Anthony Pittman, Sign LB to Practice Squad pic.twitter.com/Ofq7Tzcqv9
— Adam Schetfer (@fanhub_nfl) September 10, 2025
Twelve hours after learning of his release, Pittman announced his retirement from football. “I gave everything to this game, especially here in my city. Now it’s time to start the next chapter of my life,” he said.
In his place, the Lions signed offensive lineman Devin Cochran and linebacker Monty Rice. Cochran, standing 6-foot-7, brings size and versatility after three seasons with Cincinnati. Rice offers experience, tallying 128 career tackles since entering the league in 2021.
For Detroit, the changes reflect ongoing roster adjustments early in the season. For Pittman, the move closed the book on a seven-year journey that began in his hometown and ended with a fitting, if bittersweet, goodbye.
Eagles Waive Former Round 1 Pick Safety Ahead of Cutdown Day
The Philadelphia Eagles have begun the difficult process of trimming their roster ahead of the league’s 53-man deadline. Several names are under review, with tough choices already reshaping the balance of the depth chart.
Secondary depth was a particular concern throughout the summer. With young talent stepping forward and injuries forcing adjustments, the Eagles faced the challenge of deciding who could realistically contribute as the season opener draws closer.
A final preseason matchup against the Jets offered clarity. Coaches evaluated not only performance but also durability, weighing whether certain players could be trusted to hold up over the grind of a long campaign.
It became increasingly clear that one high-profile addition from late last season was slipping down the pecking order. Despite pedigree and potential, his opportunity to carve out a meaningful role in Philadelphia had diminished significantly.
That player is Lewis Cine, waived with an injury designation following his preseason setback. Once a first-round pick of the Vikings, he was seen as a reclamation project but now exits as the team prioritizes roster flexibility.
Cine’s journey has been defined by adversity. A devastating compound fracture as a rookie derailed his early career, and subsequent stops in Minnesota and Buffalo offered only brief opportunities before he landed in Philadelphia late last year.
The decision also reflects Philadelphia’s depth at safety. With Andrew Mukuba, Cooper DeJean, Sydney Brown, and Tristin McCollum all showing promise, the Eagles had little room to carry a player still battling injuries and inconsistency.
For Cine, the hope is that another team takes a chance. For the Eagles, this move marks only the beginning of many cuts still to come as they shift their focus toward the season opener against Green Bay.
