Rodney

Austin

Detroit has an opening at right guard and may open center to competition despite Dominic Raiola’s restructuring. A third-year pro, ankle injuries have helped limit Nagy to just four career appearances. An undrafted free agent out of small-school Elon, Austin has never appeared in a game. The Lions will be on the lookout for interior linemen in the draft and free agency.

Gandy, an eight-year veteran, is the most experienced of the trio, having appeared in 105 career games and starting 19. Nagy and Austin have combined to play in four career games. Offensive line and defensive end are Detroit’s top two needs heading into the draft.

A second-year undrafted free agent, Austin was considered a decent candidate for the 53-man roster. Perhaps he’ll be stashed on the practice squad.

Austin was arrested in April and will be sentenced on Thursday. The Lions immediately cut Austin after his arrest, but left the door open for his return should he be cleared of any wrongdoing. That door has now been slammed shut. The 26-year-old’s NFL “career” is likely over. Austin appeared in one game.

He also must complete a batterer’s intervention program after being found guilty of four misdemeanors in his domestic violence case on Tuesday. Austin will have to let his legal situation cool before even thinking about playing football.

Austin was cut following domestic violence charges. GM Martin Mayhew left open the possibility Austin could return once his legal situation is resolved. As a first-time offender, Austin will be subject to a six-game suspension.

The suspension stems from a domestic violence incident that occurred back in April. A fringe player to begin with, no team will go near Austin with so much off-field baggage. It appears the 26 year old will have to find a new line of work.

A practice squad type, Austin played no offensive snaps for the Lions last year. He sealed his fate last week when he was arrested on four misdemeanor charges of assaulting a female, assaulting a child under 12, interfering with emergency communication and larceny.

With LT Riley Reiff (knee) joining RG Larry Warford (knee) on the sidelines, the Lions need some depth for Thursday’s game against the Bears.

It’s the second straight year Austin has been released at final cuts. Perennially talked up in the offseason, Austin has one regular-season appearance to his name.