Detroit Lions Claim Safety Thomas Harper Off Raiders Waivers

The Detroit Lions have claimed safety Thomas Harper off waivers from the Las Vegas Raiders to complete their 53-man roster for the 2025 NFL season. Harper, a versatile defensive back who played collegiately at Oklahoma State and Notre Dame, appeared in 15 games with five starts for the Raiders in 2024, recording 26 tackles, an interception, a half-sack, and strong coverage grades from Pro Football Focus. Despite making the Raiders' initial 53-man roster, Harper was waived to make room for newly acquired safety Tristin McCollum, prompting the Lions to add him as depth in their secondary. Harper's ability to cover multiple positions, contribute on special teams, and his physical traits such as 4.49 speed and a 42-inch vertical jump make him a valuable developmental prospect for Detroit. He joins a safety group featuring All-Pro Kerby Joseph, Pro Bowler Brian Branch, and reserves like Daniel Thomas and Loren Strickland. The move reflects the Lions' strategy to bolster their defensive backfield depth ahead of their season opener against the Green Bay Packers.