On the same day the Detroit Lions sent starting right tackle LaAdrian Waddle to injured reserve, the team went a different direction to fill his roster spot.

The Lions claimed cornerback Josh Thomas off waivers after he was released by the New York Jets, filling Waddle's roster spot.

The 25-year-old Thomas was a fifth-round pick in the 2011 draft by Dallas. He never played a game for the Cowboys and spent three seasons in Carolina before splitting this season between Seattle and the Jets.

The 5-foot-11 Thomas has played in 42 NFL games with 54 tackles and one interception. He also has 12 career special-teams tackles.