Lions cut safety Quin, two others for salary cap relief
In the not-for-long world of the NFL, Detroit Lions free safety Glover Quin became a salary cap casualty on Friday.
The 33-year-old Quin, who had not missed a game in six seasons with the Lions, was one of three players cut by the team along with wide receiver Bruce Ellington and linebacker Nicholas Grigsby. By releasing Quin, the Lions will bank US$6.25 million in salary cap money for the 2019 season. “We thank Glover for his countless contributions to the Detroit Lions during his six seasons with our team,” Lions general manager Bob Quinn said in a statement. “Since joining the organization in 2013, Glover exemplified everything it means to be a true professional in this league — as both a competitor on the field and a leading voice in the community. “Coach (Matt) Patricia and I have the utmost respect for him as a man and player and we wish him nothing but the very best in the future.”
Quin joined the Lions in 2013, after four years with Houston, on a five-year deal worth $23.5 million and signed a two-year extension before training camp in 2017 for $13 million.
A 10-year veteran, Quin has appeared in 148 straight games, most among active safeties in the NFL, with 96 of those for Detroit. On his Instagram account, Quin said, “They say all good things come to an end!! Thank you Detroit!! Its been real!! #ThankYou.” Quin had his best statistical year in 2014 with seven interceptions, but did not record one in 2018 and his playing time slipped down the stretch to rookie Tracy Walker. The Lions added the 27-year-old Ellington last season after trading away Golden Tate III. He appeared in four games and had 132 yards receiving on 23 catches.
The 26-year-old Grigsby was signed to Detroit’s practice roster in November after he was cut by New England and was activated a week later. He appeared in three games for Detroit and did not record a tackle.