Detroit Lions Adjusted Practice Squad and Active Roster

The team re-signed linebacker Joe Bachie and promoted center Seth McLaughlin to the active roster.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Football

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The Detroit Lions re-signed linebacker Joe Bachie to the practice squad and promoted center Seth McLaughlin to the active roster on Wednesday following several injuries. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Detroit Lions have reshuffled their roster, adding Joe Bachie to the practice squad and elevating Seth McLaughlin to the active roster. These moves come as the team navigates multiple injuries along the offensive line.

Why it matters

The roster adjustments are a direct response to injuries involving Cade Mays, Jimmy Rolder, and Damone Clark. The moves ensure depth at both linebacker and center as the season progresses.

Linebacker Joe Bachie appeared in 32 special teams snaps during the team's first two games of the season. His return to the practice squad makes him a candidate for future game-day elevation.

The players

Joe Bachie

He is a linebacker who provides special teams depth and was recently re-signed to the practice squad.

Seth McLaughlin

He is a center who was promoted to the active roster to provide emergency depth along the offensive line.

Detroit Lions

This is a professional football team based in Detroit that competes in the National Football League.

Cade Mays

He is an offensive lineman whose injury during training camp contributed to current roster volatility.

The details

Joe Bachie was released by the team on Tuesday but rejoined the practice squad one day later, while Seth McLaughlin was promoted to the active roster following his previous waiver on September 3. McLaughlin had previously been elevated for the game against the Buffalo Bills.

Timeline

  1. September 3, 2026: Seth McLaughlin was waived by the Lions.

  2. September 2026 (Tuesday): Joe Bachie was released from the active roster.

  3. September 23, 2026: Joe Bachie re-signed with the practice squad.

Season Trajectory

These transactions reflect the ongoing challenge of managing player depth amidst recurring injuries that threaten the team's competitive balance. Maintaining a flexible roster allows the Lions to plug holes in the rotation without compromising their long-term playoff aspirations.

Seth McLaughlin is now active to cover potential gaps on the offensive line created by current injuries. Joe Bachie remains available for future elevation if the coaching staff needs additional special teams coverage for upcoming matchups.

The takeaway

Roster management is a constant process in the NFL as teams balance immediate injury needs with the long-term goal of maintaining depth. Fans should expect similar personnel adjustments throughout the season as player availability fluctuates.

Further reading

For more updates on team news, visit the Football section.

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Do you trust the Lions' current strategy of rotating players through their practice squad?