The Lions signed nine free agents today including tight end Dan Gronkowski, a seventh-round pick who spent most of the season on the practice squad, and defensive tackle Terrance Taylor who played for Michigan. Taylor was signed to the practice squad in mid-December.

Also signed were wide receiver Michael Ray Garvin,  wide receiver Kole Heckendorf, defensive back Jonathan Hefney, defensive end Robert Henderson, defensive back Paul Pratt, guard Kurt Quarterman and defensive back Jahi Word-Daniels. All except Hefney were on the Lions’ practice squad to end the season.

— PAULA PASCHE