Lions Add Defensive Lineman Taki Taimani, Let Go of Receiver Lawrence Keys

October 28, 2026 - 03:22

The Detroit Lions made a pair of roster moves on Tuesday, signing defensive lineman Taki Taimani to the practice squad and releasing wide receiver Lawrence Keys.

Taimani joins Detroit after spending time with the Minnesota Vikings, where he appeared in a handful of games as a rotational interior defender. The 6-foot-2, 330-pound lineman originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent and has worked to carve out a role as a space-eating nose tackle. His addition gives the Lions another big body to develop behind their starting front, and the practice squad provides a low-risk opportunity to evaluate whether he can contribute in a run-stuffing capacity.

Keys, meanwhile, departs after a brief stint with the organization. The former Tulane and Notre Dame wideout had been competing for depth reps in a crowded receiver room, but the numbers game ultimately worked against him. Detroit has leaned on a deep rotation at the position, and Keys was unable to secure a spot despite showing some flashes during offseason work.

The moves reflect the front office's ongoing effort to churn the bottom of the roster and keep developmental talent flowing through the practice squad. With the season underway, expect general manager Brad Holmes and his staff to continue tweaking depth pieces as needs arise and injuries surface across the lineup.