On Thursday morning, news broke that the Detroit Lions had traded tight end Michael Roberts to the New England for a future late-round draft pick.
http://gty.im/1064367522
In advance of the Lions’ final OTA, head coach Matt Patricia explained why Roberts was dealt, noting “good competition” at the tight end position.
“Good competition in the (TE) room right now, so we had an opportunity to move on from Mike and hopefully get something in the future for it.”
Matt Patricia on the Michael Roberts trade: "Good competition in the (TE) room right now, so we had an opportunity to move on from Mike and hopefully get something in the future for it."
— Chris Burke (@ChrisBurkeNFL) June 13, 2019
The Lions tight end room was in shambles in 2018 but this season should be completely different with T.J. Hockenson, Jesse James, Logan Thomas, and Isaac Nauta joining the crew.
The move also frees up $495,189 in salary cap space for the 2019 season.
After the trade of Michael Roberts, the Lions will incur a a hit of $299,622 and free up $495,189 in salary cap space in 2019.
— Erik Schlitt (@erikschlitt) June 13, 2019