Lions Have Yet To Officially Release LB Stephen Tulloch, He’s Due A $500K Roster Bonus Today

Update:

The Lions have told Dave Birkett that they have “nothing to announce today” when it comes to Stephen Tulloch,  who is due a $500,000 roster bonus today.

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Despite reports from a month ago that the Lions were releasing veteran ILB Stephen Tulloch at the start of the league year, Detroit has surprisingly yet to do so.

Kyle Meinke points out that Tulloch is actually due a $500,000 roster bonus on the 5th day of the new league year, which happens to be today.

Meike isn’t sure what the holdup for this move is, but he doesn’t think they’ll change their mind and elect to keep Tulloch instead.

Tulloch actually confirmed that he was being released via his Instagram account three weeks ago, releasing the following statement:

“What a journey it’s been Detroit! Five years of some of the greatest memories of my career. I can’t put into words how grateful I am to have played for such a great organization. I want thank the Ford family the front office the strength coaches, trainers, equipment staff and everybody in between for everything you have done for me over the years. Last but not least I want to thank the community of Detroit for being behind me and my foundation over the years in making a difference in many lives. Such as life there is constant change. But change that I’m looking forward to. As one chapter closes.“

Tulloch was mentioned as a potential cap casualty and, given the cap savings for the Lions, it seemed like a pretty obvious move for them.

Tulloch, 31, is in the final year of his five-year, $25.5 million contract that included $11.25 million guaranteed. He was set to make a base salary of $5.5 million for the 2016 season.

According to OverTheCap.com, releasing will free up $6 million in available cap space while creating $1.3 million in dead money.

In 2015, Tulloch appeared in all 16 games and recorded 108 tackles, one sack, a forced fumble, two recoveries and a pass defense. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 54 linebacker out of 97 qualifying players.

We’ll have more regarding Tulloch as the news is available.