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Lions sign former Bears DL Israel Idonije

The Lions signed Israel Idonije to join its defensive line, one of the top in the league. (Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

The Lions signed Nigeria-native Israel Idonije to join its defensive line, one of the top in the league. (Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

The Lions have signed defensive lineman Israel Idonije to a one-year contract, reports ProFootballTalk:

The 6-foot-6, 275-pound Idonije looks like a solid fit for Detroit. He made starts at left end and defensive tackle for Chicago in 2012, and such flexibility will suit him well playing for Lions DL coach Jim Washburn, a proponent of rotating linemen to keep them fresh.

The Lions lost defensive ends Cliff Avril (through free agency) and Kyle Vanden Bosch (who was released), so Idonije will join a new group of defensive ends -- Jason Jones, a former Seahawk who can play defensive end and defensive tackle, and rookie Ezekiel Ansah, the No. 5 overall pick in the draft.

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