On Monday, a report surfaced that the Buccaneers would be waiving cornerback Johnthan Banks in order to make room for the return of running back Mike James.
As in the case of former Patriots center Bryan Stork this summer, though, it appears that word of Banks’ imminent dismissal sparked a call from another team interested in making a trade. PFT has confirmed multiple reports that Banks is on his way to the Lions for a seventh-round pick in the 2018 draft.
Stork was reportedly on his way to being waived by the Patriots, who have employed both Bucs General Manager Jason Licht and Lions General Manager Bob Quinn, before being dealt to the Redskins this summer. He ultimately failed his physical in Washington and was cut upon his return to New England, something the Lions presumably hope is not the case with Banks.
Banks was a 2013 second-round pick by the Bucs and started for his first two seasons before moving into a reduced role over the last two years. He’s played in five games this season, but none since the Buccaneers’ bye in Week Six.
The trade reunites Banks with Mississippi State teammate Darius Slay, who was also a second-round pick in 2013. Slay missed last Sunday’s loss to the Texans with a hamstring injury.
