Bobby

Carpenter

Greg Ellis’ play on the outside has been impressive in training camp thus far. Carpenter is currently listed behind Akin Ayodele.

We never heard that Durant suffered a concussion last week, but the Lions must suspect that it happened. Durant was held out of practice on Thursday, a sign that his status is in question for the Cowboys game this week. Bobby Carpenter would fill in if Durant can’t go.

The Lions would rather re-sign Kevin Smith as insurance for Mikel Leshoure and Jahvid Best. In addition to Morris, the Lions are also expected to move on from LB Bobby Carpenter, safeties Erik Coleman and Chris Harris, CB Brandon McDonald, WR Maurice Stovall, and OG Leonard Davis.

The 2006 first-rounder was primarily a special teamer in Detroit, playing less than a quarter of the defensive snaps last season. The six-year veteran will add depth at linebacker for the Patriots. His father, Rob, played under Bill Belichick with the Giants in the 1980s.

Durant did not record a tackle as Bobby Carpenter filled in for the majority of the game. The severity of Durant’s pull is unknown.

Carpenter has seen “a lot of playing time” during the offseason practices and is competing with Dont’a Hightower for a starting gig. With Rob Ninkovich also in the mix, the better bet is for Carpenter to work as a backup at both outside positions and do his damage in coverage in nickel formations.

Both players were cut loose at final cuts last week. Neither Carpenter nor Kehl would offer much outside of special teams and passing situations, but the Chiefs’ banged-up linebacker corps could use a veteran boost.

Beat writer Jeff Howe admits it’s “become clear” that Carpenter has a supporter in coach Bill Belichick, but believes at least one of Carpenter, Tarpinian and White won’t make the 53-man roster. Carpenter was talked up as a potential starter in Detroit last season before ultimately playing just 261 snaps. He holds little value outside of coverage.

The Patriots’ purge of veterans they signed in the offseason continues unabated. Carpenter’s cut comes as a big surprise, as he was projected in most corners to be the Pats’ top reserve linebacker. Carpenter has been an ineffective player for years, however, and holds little value outside of coverage and special teams. His release means more snaps for Tracy White and Mike Rivera.

Carpenter was released at final cuts by the Pats. He’s back now thanks to Dont’a Hightower’s hamstring issue.