Lions pick up LB Nece, RB Thomas, sign eight to practice squad

ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- The Detroit Lions signed veteran linebacker Ryan Nece and claimed rookie running back Marcus Thomas off waivers.

The team also signed eight players to the practice squad, including former baseball prospect and Dallas quarterback Drew Henson.

Nece signed with Tampa Bay as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2002 and played six seasons with the Buccaneers, appearing in 85 games and starting 35. Nece, the son of Hall of Fame safety Ronnie Lott, was released Saturday by Tampa Bay.

San Diego drafted Thomas out of Texas-El Paso in the fifth round and released him Saturday.