National Football League

Lions sign RB Joique Bell and cut RB Aaron Brown

Published Dec. 27, 2011 9:30 p.m. ET

foxsports

The Detroit Lions have signed running back Joique Bell and released running back Aaron Brown.

Detroit confirms the move Tuesday.

The Lions may use Bell on Sunday at Green Bay to rest Kevin Smith, who has been slowed by a sprained right ankle.

Bell was on New Orleans' practice squad this year after leading the Saints with 182 yards rushing on 31 carries during the preseason. He spent time last year as a rookie with Buffalo, Philadelphia and Indianapolis. The former Wayne State star won the 2009 Harlon Hill Trophy, which honors the top player in Division II football.

Brown had one carry in one game for the Lions after rejoining the team last month. Detroit drafted him in 2009 and he played 21 games over his first two seasons.