Lions' Brandon Pettigrew: Expected to be released by Lions

The Lions are expected to release Pettigrew (knee) in the near future, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Analysis:

One day removed from his placement on the reserve/non-football injury list, Pettigrew's stall in the locker room was empty and sans nameplate Wednesday. Although Pettigrew is believed to be healthy, the Lions apparently are moving forward with Eric Ebron as their top tight end. Once the release is finalized, Pettigrew will likely land with another organization to serve as depth.