Former Georgia linebacker Natrez Patrick signs with Detroit Lions

Natrez Patrick is getting another chance at sticking on an NFL roster. On Monday, the Lions announced the signing of the former Georgia linebacker on Twitter.

“#Lions have signed OLB Natrez Patrick and waived OLB Jessie Lemonier,” tweeted Detroit.

Patrick had an impressive career with the Bulldogs, leading the team’s defense and playing a pivotal role on the team. During his four seasons in Athens, the former Georgia linebacker accumulated 160 total tackles and 2.0 sacks.

After not being drafted when he entered his name in the 2019 NFL Draft, Patrick joined the Los Angeles Rams. He played with the franchise for two seasons, and spent 2021 with the Denver Broncos. Now, the former Georgia linebacker is taking his talents to Detroit.

In his NFL career, Patrick has played sparingly, amassing just five total tackles. Now in a solid situation to prove his mettle with the Lions, perhaps Natrez Patrick can make a name for himself at the professional level in Detroit.

Lions GM Brad Holmes explains why he compares Aidan Hutchinson to Chris Long

Furthermore, the Detroit Lions were very happy to see former Michigan Wolverines EDGE rusher Aidan Hutchinson fall to them with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Hutchinson was ultimately selected after Travon Walker, who went No. 1 overall to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Following the selection of Hutchinson, Lions general manager Brad Holmes expressed his excitement for adding such a talented player on defense. Holmes went on to give Hutchinson a lofty comparison, putting him in the conversation alongside former NFL star defensive end Chris Long.

“When I first saw him, he reminded me of Chris Long a little bit,” Holmes said. “I was with the Rams back when we drafted Chris Long, and the reason why that was such a unique comparison is because at the time, we were more of a four-man front team defense and Chris Long was like a 34 at UVA. So then, we had to project him as kind of an edge guy.

“You fast forward to Aidan, we’re like man, this guy can really be a five-technique or he can be a bunch of different things. But then you see him the next season and he just shows a whole new toolbox. It was an uptick in excitement in light form. But really, really excited about him.”