The Detroit Lions released two reserve players Saturday in anticipation of other moves to come before their next game on November 9 against Miami.
Safety Jerome Couplin and tight end Jordan Thompson were cut, more than likely to make room on the 53-man roster for rookie linebacker Kyle Van Noy and a defensive tackle.
Van Noy, a second-round draft pick, hasn't played yet this season after being put on the injured list in preseason following a sports-hernia surgery in August. He has been practicing lately and is eligible to return to game action against the Dolphins.
The other spot could be for C.J. Mosley, who was put on the reserve/suspended list and missed the last game following an undisclosed violation of team rules.
With Nick Fairley expected to be out for a while with a knee injury, the Lions also could sign a free-agent defensive tackle.
Thompson's departure suggests that at least one of the team's top three tight ends -- Brandon Pettigrew, Eric Ebron and Joseph Fauria -- will be back after each missed last Sunday's victory over Atlanta in London, England, because of injuries.
The Lions have been off since returning from their overseas trip. Coach Jim Caldwell has his weekly news conference scheduled for Monday afternoon.
