Detroit Lions Signing CB Colby Richardson

The Detroit Lions are signing cornerback Colby Richardson, according to a report from NFL reporter Aaron Wilson. 

Richardson, an undrafted rookie out of LSU, signed with the Carolina Panthers. He was waived by the Panthers and had recently worked out for the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens. 

The move comes a day after the Lions waived cornerback Tae Hayes. 

Hayes played 20 snaps in Detroit's preseason opener and earned an 80.3 overall Pro Football Focus defensive grade.  

Richardson began his college career at McNeese State before transferring to LSU for his final season. In six college seasons, he totaled 69 tackles and three interceptions. 

His final season with the Tigers saw him post 12 total tackles. That year, he played in 12 games with five starts. 

He earned a 60.2 overall PFF defensive grade in 2022. Richardson played in 39 total games in his career. 

His first collegiate season was a redshirt, and he was given another year of eligibility in the pandemic shortened 2020 season. This allowed him to play six collegiate seasons. 

The Lions overhauled their secondary in the offseason, adding starting-caliber players in Cam Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley. 

Moseley is currently on the PUP list as he continues to recover from a torn ACL suffered last season. 

Two undrafted free agent cornerbacks, Starling Thomas V and Steven Gilmore, have already made strong statements in training camp.

In addition to signing Richardson, the Lions worked out former USFL center Jake Lacina, who has spent time in the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings.

The Lions continue the preseason with a matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Aug. 12. They will square off with their opponent for two days of joint practices leading up to the game.