The Lions shifted their focus from the defensive deficiencies to a couple offensive issues and signed free agent tight end Michael Gaines to a four year contract worth $10 million with $3 million guaranteed money.

Gaines was drafted in 2004 by the Carolina Panthers out of UCF with the 31st pick of the 7th round. He played two seasons in Carolina before moving on to Buffalo last season and had his best statistical season with 25 receptions for 215 yards and two touchdowns. The Lions are looking for better than that, around 40 receptions, and utilizing his size (6-3, 277) for energizing their running game.

With Michael Turner signing a 6-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons, the Lions look to visit with former Dallas Cowboy running back Julius Jones.

Free agent offensive lineman Damien Woody is visiting the New York Jets, who are looking for a right tackle and the Green Bay Packers have had contact with linebacker Boss Bailey.