Watch CBS News

Trade With Patriots Falls Through, Lions Waive Roberts

The Detroit Lions waived tight end Michael Roberts after trying to trade him to the New England Patriots.

The Lions say trade conditions put Roberts back on the team's roster before they took him off it for the second straight day.

Detroit Lions v Miami Dolphins
MIAMI, FL - OCTOBER 21: Michael Roberts #80 of the Detroit Lions celebrates with teammates after a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium on October 21, 2018 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Roberts failed a physical with the Patriots, according to a person aware of the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because that detail was not announced. Roberts declined comment when reached by the AP on Friday.

Detroit Lions v San Francisco 49ers
SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 16: Michael Roberts #80 of the Detroit Lions catches a touchdown pass over Adrian Colbert #27 of the San Francisco 49ers during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on September 16, 2018 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Detroit announced Thursday it received a conditional pick from New England in exchange for Roberts. He became expendable this offseason after the Lions drafted Iowa tight end T.J. Hockenson early in the first round and signed veterans Jesse James and Logan Thomas.

Detroit drafted Roberts in the fourth round in 2017. He has 13 career receptions for 146 yards and three touchdowns.

© 2019 Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.