Patriots steal Lions’ standout UDFA in latest roster move

The New England Patriots on Tuesday added another young linebacker to their active roster, signing former Detroit Lions undrafted rookie Erick Hunter to the 53-man team on Tuesday. The move camebafter Detroit released Hunter on Sunday giving the Morgan State product an immediate opportunity to remain on an NFL active roster rather than Erick Hunter a practice squad.

The 23-year-old entered the league as an undrafted rookie with the Lions on May 12, 2026. He 45 games and made 39 starts at Morgan State, finishing second in school history with 298 total tackles. He also recorded 10.5 sacks, seven forced fumbles, three interceptions and a fumble recovery during his college career.

The 6-foot-2, 225-pound linebacker preseason performance helped create interest beyond his college production. Hunter played 70 defensive snaps across Detroit’s three exhibition games and recorded six tackles. He ranked 10th among qualifying linebackers during the preseason and led the position in run-stopping performance without missing a tackle, according to Pro Football Focus.

Hunter did face some challenges in coverage, allowing six receptions on six targets for 57 yards, according to PFF. Still, his overall preseason showing gave the Lions reason to be encouraged about his development.

Detroit’s decision to release him appear to have been heavily influenced by the team’s depth at linebacker. The Lions’ initial 53-man roster included Jack Campbell, Derrick Barnes, Malcolm Rodriguez, Devin White, Trevor Nowaske and rookie Jimmy Rolder, while Joe Bachie and Amen Ogbongbemiga were on the practice squad. Rolder had missed much of training camp with a hamstring injury, creating additional opportunities for Hunter, but his presence on the active roster reduced the available room.

The Patriots, meanwhile, now have Hunter on their 53-man roster, potentially giving him a clearer path to contributing than he had in Detroit. New England also made several other roster changes Tuesday, re-signing offensive lineman Ben Brown and adding linebackers KJ Britt and Jose Ramirez, defensive tackle Jalen Hunt and offensive lineman Jake Kubas to the practice squad.

The Patriots’ latest moves returned their active roster to 53 players, while the practice squad reached 16 of 17 spots filled.

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