The defensive line is certainly an area of concern as the Lions prepare to open the season. Surprisingly, they cut two veteran defensive tackles on Saturday — Shaun Smith and Chuck Darby.
  The Lions had signed the loud-mouth Smith, who had spent seven seasons in the NFL, early in training camp after he had been released by Cleveland. Darby, a nine-year pro, started 15 games at nose tackle for the Lions last season. Perhaps Ikaika Alama-Francis or Andre Fluellen will step into that spot.
  Wide receiver Dane Looker, a multi-dimensional player, had been solid since signing midway through training camp due to the number of injuries to wide receivers. It was surprising that he was cut and third-round pick Derrick Williams made the roster. Williams was drafted as a return specialist and had trouble catching punts in preseason action.
  Here’s a complete list of players who were released:  LB Rufus Alexander, QB Brooks Bollinger, G Milford Brown, TE Carson Butler,WR Keary Colbe RB Aveion Cason, rt, DE Sean Conover, K Billy Cundiff, DT Chuck Darby, RB Tristan Davis, LB Zack Follett, C Dan Gerberry, TE Dan Gronkowski, WR Dane Looker, DB Calvin Lowry, T Lydon Murtha, DB Ramzee Robinson, DB Stuart Schweigert, DT Shaun Smith, LB Spenser Smith, WR John Standeford.
   Even though the final cuts were due Saturday night, the roster is expected to change before the season opener at New Orleans next Sunday. Due to their 0-16 record last year, the Lions have first pick of any players who are waived.
 — PAULA PASCHE