Detroit Lions Release Tight End; Scored 3 TDs In Week 16

The Detroit Lions made a significant decision on Tuesday, announcing the release of tight end Shane Zylstra due to a severe knee injury sustained during practice.

The injury is expected to keep Zylstra out of action for approximately six months.

The 26-year-old player, who joined the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2021 and later signed with the Lions' practice squad, had promising moments during the 2021 and 2022 seasons, recording a total of 14 catches for 94 yards and four touchdowns.

His biggest game came in Week 16 where he exploded for three touchdowns against the Carolina Panthers.

The #Lions have now waived/injured Shane Zylstra. https://t.co/Zw3afwZgkU

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 1, 2023

Shane Zylstra's journey in the NFL has been intertwined with the Lions, and his older brother, Brandon Zylstra, also spent time with the team as a wide receiver on the practice squad in the previous year.

The Lions' decision to waive Zylstra comes as they prepare to move forward with rookie Sam LaPorta as their starting tight end, with Brock Wright and James Mitchell providing depth in the position.

The team's decision, though tough, was influenced by the severity of Zylstra's knee injury and the prospect of him being unavailable for the entire 2023 season. Photo Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports