Lions move Damone Clark to IR, add center Gus Hartwig as roster reshuffle continues

The Detroit Lions have placed veteran linebacker Damone Clark on injured reserve, a move the team announced as training camp operations continued. Clark suffered an undisclosed injury early in camp and will miss the season, according to the team announcement reported by Yahoo Sports. The placement effectively removes Clark from the active roster while the Lions move to keep defensive depth intact.

Clark’s absence creates an immediate need at linebacker, where the Lions will have to rely on the remaining options to cover practice reps and, if needed, game-day snaps. Because the injury was not publicly detailed, the team’s near-term plans will likely hinge on how quickly the rest of the linebacker group can absorb responsibilities vacated by Clark.

To address roster needs, Detroit also signed center Gus Hartwig. Hartwig’s addition indicates the Lions are not only responding to Clark’s health situation but also adjusting the overall depth chart, including at a position that requires timing with the quarterback and protection calls at the snap.

Training camp injuries often force teams to make rapid, targeted transactions, and IR placements carry a particular weight because they are season-altering roster decisions. With Clark out, the Lions will need the rest of their linebackers to stay healthy and versatile enough to handle special teams and base defense roles during the remainder of camp.

While this announcement clarifies the Lions’ moves, it does not provide further specifics about Clark’s injury nature or the contract terms of Hartwig’s signing. As a result, the most reliable takeaway for fans is the operational impact: Clark is not available for the season, and Hartwig is now in the organization’s plans to add functional depth at center.

Looking ahead, the Lions’ next roster updates will likely show how they are distributing reps across the linebacker room in Clark’s absence and whether Hartwig emerges as a primary backup option at center during preseason work. The immediate priority will be building continuity on the offensive line snap-by-snap while maintaining competitive coverage on defense without Clark’s experience.