Before the second week of OTA practices began Tuesday, the Lions announced the signing of running back Matt Asiata.
Asiata, who spent his first five seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, could give the Lions' run game a bit of a lift.
"I think it's a big key," Asiata said after Wednesday's practice. "It opens up the passing game. With Stafford back there, he can do whatever he wants. With a good running game, it will help out more."
To make room for Asiata on the roster, the Lions released fullback Michael Burton, a sign the team is moving away from the position altogether.