Full Breakdown
Lions Promote Veteran Linebacker Joe Bachie Ahead of Season Opener
9/8/2026, 8:23:41 AM
Roster Move Overview
The Detroit Lions promoted linebacker Joe Bachie from the practice squad, leaving one active-roster spot open. The team also re-signed center Seth McLaughlin and running back Jabari Small to the practice squad and placed guard Mason Miller on the practice-squad injured list.
Background and Recent Roster Situation
The Lions cut Bachie on August 30 during final roster reductions. After waiving McLaughlin and Small on September 2, those players returned to the practice squad, preserving depth while the Lions searched for a veteran linebacker to support special teams and back up rookie Jimmy Rolder, who is rehabbing a hamstring.
Timeline of Key Transactions
- April 29 – Bachie signs as an undrafted free agent.
- August 30 – Cut during final cuts.
- September 2 – McLaughlin and Small waived.
- Early September – Bachie promoted; McLaughlin and Small re-added to the practice squad; Miller moved to the practice-squad injured list.
- September 13 – Lions host the New Orleans Saints in Week 1.
Data and Statistics
- Career games: 66 NFL appearances.
- Starts: 7 (five last season).
- Tackles: 77 total (38 solo); 29 recorded in 2025.
- Special-teams: 1,128 snaps and 77 tackles.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Dan Campbell said the team “has a pretty good idea” of how to fill the remaining roster spot, emphasizing the need for a reliable special-teams player. General manager Brad Holmes praised Bachie’s “smart, crafty” football IQ and positional flexibility.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Just a smart, crafty, all-out linebacker, can play all the spots as needed, special teams,” — Dan Campbell
Impact and Outlook
Bachie’s promotion adds veteran depth to a linebacking corps that includes All-Pro candidate Jack Campbell and former top-5 pick Devin White. His special-teams experience should aid field-position battles while Rolder recovers. The re-signed McLaughlin backs up starter Juice Scruggs, and Small remains a depth option on the practice squad.
What’s Next
The Lions open the season at home against the Saints on September 13. Bachie is expected to contribute on special teams and provide linebacker depth as Detroit implements Campbell’s defensive schemes.
