Lions cut TE Tony Scheffler; sign OT Barry Richardson

The Detroit Lions have replaced a veteran tight end with a veteran offensive tackle.

According to Pro Football Talk, the Lions have released tight end Tony Scheffler, who has been sidelined with a concussion for the last two weeks.

In his absence, undrafted Joseph Fauria has seen increasing playing time and has played well, making Scheffler expendable. The Lions also have Brandon Pettigrew as their main tight end.

Scheffler’s roster spot has been filled by free agent offensive tackle Barry Richardson. Richardson started 16 games for the St. Louis Rams last season, and 16 games for the Kansas City Chiefs both of his two seasons before that. With  Riley Reiff, Jason Fox and Corey Hilliard all dealing with various injuries, the move signing makes sense, and Richardson should be able to start right away if he has to.

The six-foot-five Scheffler was drafted in the second-round by the Denver Broncos before being traded to the Lions in 2010. Scheffler has 258 receptions for 3,207 yards and 22 touchdowns in his nine year career.