Lions Re-Sign 6-Foot-4 Tight End Days After Releasing Him

The Detroit Lions have quickly reversed course by bringing back tight end Zach Horton just days after releasing him during training camp roster adjustments.

Since camp began late last month, the Lions have been making several moves to fine-tune the back end of their roster. One of those transactions saw Horton released so the team could re-sign veteran tight end Anthony Firkser. However, circumstances changed rapidly after Firkser suffered a significant injury.

Horton Returns Following Firkser Injury

Horton originally joined Detroit as an undrafted free agent in 2024. He spent much of his rookie season on the practice squad before making his NFL debut on Thanksgiving against the Green Bay Packers. He appeared in two games, contributing primarily on special teams without recording any offensive statistics.

Detroit announced Tuesday that Horton is back with the team after Firkser sustained a broken fibula during Monday’s practice. Head coach Dan Campbell confirmed the veteran tight end will miss the entire season after being placed on injured reserve.

“Firk has a fractured fibula, so he’ll be out,” Campbell said. “We got Zach Horton back today at the tight end position, and we move forward.”

Firkser’s Second Stint Ends Prematurely

Firkser was no stranger to Detroit, having first joined the Lions’ practice squad in October 2023. He earned a promotion to the active roster later that season, appearing in two regular-season contests and all three of the team’s playoff games.

Following the 2023 campaign, Firkser was released before eventually joining the New York Jets in July 2024. He later returned to Detroit this offseason, but his latest stint has been cut short by the season-ending leg injury.

Injuries Continue to Mount at Training Camp

Firkser isn’t the only Lion dealing with an injury. Running back Sione Vaki also exited Monday’s practice after suffering a facial injury when a hand slipped through his facemask.

Campbell revealed that Vaki sustained a broken nose and an eye injury but expressed optimism that his vision will recover.

“He’s going to be out for a little while,” Campbell said. “We’re hopeful his vision will be fine. It was just one of those strange accidents where a hand somehow got through the facemask.”

The Lions expect Vaki to recover, though he will need time away from practice before returning to the field.