Lions add lineman Rodney Austin, cut TE Kellen Davis

Allen Park — The Lions made a couple roster moves Tuesday to account for the possibility of left tackle Riley Reiff missing Thursday's game against the Chicago Bears.

They promoted Rodney Austin, an interior offensive lineman, to the active roster from the practice squad and cut tight end Kellen Davis.

With Brandon Pettigrew, Eric Ebron and Joseph Fauria healthy, releasing Davis became a matter of time. The Lions signed Davis before the Week 8 game in London with all three tight ends injured.

If Reiff's left knee injury keeps him out Thursday, the Lions would keep Austin active as the seventh offensive lineman and the effective backup at guard or center. Garrett Reynolds can play guard or tackle but would be the go-to option if tackles LaAdrian Waddle or Cornelius Lucas suffered an injury.

The Lions signed linebacker Jerrell Harris to the practice squad to fill Austin's spot.

jkatzenstein@detroitnews.com

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