The Detroit Lions have acquired two new offensive tackles, in the hopes of replacing left tackle Taylor Decker, at least to start the season.
The team announced on Thursday that they have traded a 2018 sixth round pick to the Los Angeles Rams for offensive tackle Greg Robinson. Robinson was the 2nd overall pick by the Rams in 2014, and has 42 starts in three seasons.
The team also signed offensive tackle Cyrus Kouandjio from free agency. Kouandjio was a second round pick by the Buffalo Bills in 2014.
To make room for the two new tackles, the Lions waived long-snapper Jimmy Landes and offensive tackle Arturo Uzdanivis. Landes was a sixth round by in Bob Quinn’s first draft with the team, and was placed on injured reserve before the 2016 season. Don Muhlbach was the team’s long-snapper for the 12th consecutive season last year.
Jim Caldwell said before the final mini-camp practice on Thursday that both players will compete at left tackle.
Robinson flew in from Los Angeles at 10:30 PM on Wednesday, and landed at 6:00 AM in Detroit after being traded.
After being the 2nd overall pick, he’s looking for a fresh start.
“I plan on benefiting from it tremendously,” Robinson said regarding the trade. “I think throughout the course of my career, it’s really refreshing and I plan to make the most out of it.”
While the team leaves for their summer break, Robinson will go visit his family for a couple days “and then from there jump in the playbook, try my best to learn it as quickly as possible.”
Kouandjio was asked why he chose to sign with the Lions, and replied “I like their offense style. I thought there was a lot more opportunity here than other places. I like the area.”
The two-time national champion at Alabama said he will play wherever the team wants him, either left tackle or right tackle. He underwent hip surgery after the season, and said he will be ready to go in time for training camp.