ALLEN PARK — The Lions made it official on Saturday morning that they’ve signed veteran defensive end Mike Daniels.
Running back Theo Riddick was released to make room for Daniels.
Coach Matt Patricia made the announcements Saturday morning just before the start of camp.
“I have a lot of respect for (Daniels), he’s had really good production in the way he plays the game, he’s very intense,’’ Patricia said noting his knowledge of the game.
Patricia said he met with Daniels on Thursday.
“He’s very aware of the division which is nice,’’ Patricia said.
Daniels joins Damon “Snacks” Harrison, A’Shawn Robinson, Trey Flowers, Da’Shawn Hand and Romeo Okwara on the defensive line.
The Green Bay Packers released the 30-year-old Daniels just before the start of camp.
The seven-year veteran signed a one-year deal worth $9.1 according to several reports. He was set to make $8.1 million in Green Bay this season.
Daniels, a Pro Bowler in 2017, had 29 sacks in his seven years with the Packers. He was a fourth-round draft pick in 2012.
Patricia would not get into details of why they cut Riddick who was scheduled to make $3.2 million this season.
“Theo is obviously a great professional, did a lot of great things for us,’’ Patricia said.
Riddick spent the last six seasons with the Lions. Last season in 14 games he had 40 carries for 171 yards and 61 catches for 384 yards.
The Lions added veteran running back C.J. Anderson in the offseason and have depth at the position with Kerryon Johnson, Zack Zenner and rookie Ty Johnson.
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