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Detroit Lions Waive S Jalen Elliott, WR Javon McKinley

The Detroit Lions have waived two players ahead of rookie minicamp.

John Maakaron

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Prior to rookie minicamp, the Detroit Lions needed to make room for their undrafted free agents. 

After releasing six players earlier this week, the team announced on Thursday morning that two more players are no longer on the roster. 

It was announced that safety Jalen Elliott and wide receiver Javon McKinley were waived. 

A total of eight players have been waived since the start of the week. 

Elliott saw action last season after getting elevated from the practice squad. 

He handled 16 snaps on special teams in the Lions' loss to the Los Angeles Rams. 

The following week, Elliott played 24 defensive snaps, the first of his NFL career, in a blowout loss to the Eagles. 

With the addition of rookie safety Kerby Joseph and veteran DeShon Elliott, the 23-year-old's position on the roster became less and less likely. 

McKinley had a similar journey last season, as he spent the majority of the season on the practice squad. 

The former Fighting Irish wideout signed with the Lions as an undrafted rookie free agent, after not being drafted. 

Many NFL pundits believed it was going to be a challenge for McKinley to crack Detroit's lineup in his rookie campaign. 

With the addition of DJ Chark in free agency and Jameson Williams via the draft, McKinley's chances of earning playing time were diminished. 

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John Maakaron
JOHN MAAKARON

John Maakaron has covered Detroit Sports since 2013. Brings a vast array of experience covering the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, Michigan Wolverines, Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Mercy Titans, and Oakland University Golden Grizzlies. John brings a wealth of sports broadcast experience. In 2013, John had the vision to establish the Detroit Sports Podcast Network. Has recorded over 3000 podcasts analyzing Detroit Sports. In 2019, Sports Illustrated Media Group, a historical sports media outlet, partnered with Detroit Sports Podcast to provide daily Lions content for their growing and expanding digital media outlet. Our Lions content can also be read in the newspaper at The Oakland  Passionate about Detroit Sports and it is reflected in his coverage of the local teams!

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