As many expected, the Lions announced on Friday they will host the Patriots for a trio of joint practices before the two teams open the preseason at Ford Field on August 8.
The practices will be held from August 5-7 in Allen Park.
Both teams will be well into their training camp schedules -- the Lions start July 25 -- so it figures to be an interesting few days. The first practice will be open to Lions season ticket holders, while the final two will be open to the general public.
It will be a reunion, of course, for many players and coaches involved.
On Detroit's side, Matt Patricia, Bob Quinn, Trey Flowers, Danny Amendola and Tavon Wilson all came from New England.
And on the other side, Kyle Van Noy and Michael Roberts, who was traded to the Patriots on Thursday, both came from Detroit.
As for whether Darius Slay and Damon Harrison will be present, it remains to be seen. Both players sat out OTAs and minicamp as they try to secure new contracts. Slay, for his part, said on Thursday there's a possibility he'll skip training camp as well.
In addition to their practices with the Patriots, it's expected the Lions will link up in Houston with the Texans before their preseason game Aug. 17.
Last year, the Lions had joint practices with the Giants and the Raiders.
The team wrapped up OTAs on Thursday and will have the next six weeks off before the start of training camp.
