Allen Park — The Detroit Lions announced the release of nine players Monday morning as the team whittles its roster down to a final, 53-man limit ahead of Tuesday's deadline.
The Lions released veteran receiver Breshad Perriman and waived wide receiver Victor Bolden, defensive tackle Miles Brown, cornerback Mike Ford, safety Alijah Holder, offensive lineman Evan Heim and wide receiver Damion Ratley. Additionally, the team waiver-injured offensive linemen Tyrell Crosby and Dan Skipper.
Ford and Crosby were unquestionably the surprise moves from the morning.
Ford opened training camp working as the nickelback with the first-team defense and closed the preseason with two pass breakups, but it apparently wasn't enough.