Detroit Lions Add Michigan Native Kaevon Merriweather to Practice Squad, Release Erick Hallett

The Detroit Lions have made a notable adjustment to their practice squad by signing safety Kaevon Merriweather, a Michigan native, while releasing Erick Hallett. This move comes as part of a roster shuffle that also saw the activation of defensive lineman Brodric Martin from injured reserve.

Merriweather, who starred at Romulus and Belleville High Schools before becoming a standout defensive back at Iowa, brings both local pride and depth to the Lions’ safety corps. During his college career, Merriweather recorded 118 tackles, four interceptions, and a forced fumble. After going undrafted in 2023, he joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he played 16 games as a rookie, including two starts.

This season, Merriweather has appeared in nine games for the Buccaneers, making significant contributions on special teams with 200 snaps and 44 on defense. With Lions safety Ifeatu Melifonwu now on injured reserve, Merriweather adds depth and versatility, especially in special teams, an area where he has excelled.

Reflecting on his roots, Merriweather expressed pride in representing Michigan talent. A lifelong Lions fan, he shared optimism about the team’s trajectory: “It’s incredible to see the turnaround… they’re just going to keep building on top of what they’ve been able to do.”

This signing demonstrates the Lions’ focus on strengthening their roster with versatile players who can immediately contribute while also embracing their connection to local talent.