ALLEN PARK — The new Lions regime has made it clear that every one has to earn a roster spot, they have no loyalty to the past.
That includes tight end Casey FitzSimmons who has played the last six seasons with the Lions.
FitzSimmons is in a tough spot because he injured an ankle early in training camp.
This morning he participated in team drills for the first time since the injury and said, barring a setback, the ankle is getting close to 100 percent.
Competition at tight end includes veteran Will Heller and Carson Butler (Michigan). Also the Lions drafted Brandon Pettigrew late in the first round and Dan Gronkowski in the seventh round.
FitzSimmons wanted to be back practicing sooner rather than later and not just because the other tight ends were practicing so well.
“I really don’t view it that way. I’m a guy, I don’t like to be hurt, no matter what. It doesn’t mater how the other tight ends are doing, that’s out of my control,’’ FitzSimmons said. “I’ve got a lot of stuff I can work on myself, so for me to judge those guys, I try to help those guys out ... It’s a new staff you want to prove yourself and establish yourself so that’s what I’m trying to do.’’
— PAULA PASCHE