Lions Sign Speedy Rugby Star to Practice Squad
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Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images(ALLEN PARK, Mich.) — The Detroit Lions signed speedy rugby star Carlin Isles to their practice squad as a wide receiver Thursday.
Isles, who also plays for the United States rugby sevens team, ran a 4.22 40-yard dash in his workout with the Lions, according to The Detroit Free Press.
“You’re looking for athletes,” Lions coach Jim Schwartz said. “It hasn’t been unusual to see basketball players transition to the NFL, and it’s not just recently; that goes way back.”
Isles takes the practice squad spot of tight end Matt Velden, who was promoted to the 53-man roster when tight end Dorin Dickerson was placed on injured reserve after suffering a concussion.
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