Post Archive Featuring jon kitna

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Lions deal QB Kitna to Cowboys; push for Cutler fails

The Lions traded quarterback Jon Kitna to the Dallas Cowboys for cornerback Anthony Henry on Saturday, and they reportedly tried to acquire quarterback Matt Cassel from the Patriots — so they could ship him to the Broncos for quarterback Jay Cutler.

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Kitna likely to be released soon

While Detroit Lions coach Jim Schwartz said publicly today that the team would leave its options open concerning veteran quarterback Jon Kitna, a team source said Kitna likely will be released soon.

It has been confirmed that Kitna will be owed a $1 million roster bonus shortly after the opening of free agency on Feb. 27. The source said the team, barring any unforeseen circumstances, has already decided not to pay the bonus and will release Kitna.

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Lions trade Williams, put Kitna on injured reserve

Martin Mayhew’s first big move as Lions general manager was a blockbuster, just like Roy Williams knew it would have to be.

Mayhew, who assumed control of the Lions’ football operations three weeks ago when Matt Millen was fired as team president, traded the former Pro Bowl wide receiver to the Dallas Cowboys for multiple draft picks, including a first-rounder in 2009, shortly before the NFL’s 4 p.m. trade deadline Tuesday.

The trade, coupled with a decision to place Jon Kitna on injured reserve that has the veteran quarterback seething, did more than end months of speculation about Williams’ long-term future in Detroit. For the Lions, who will receive first-, third- and sixth-round picks in next year’s draft, in exchange for Williams and Detroit’s seventh-round choice in 2009, it’s also the boldest and best evidence the franchise has focused its attention on the future after a dismal 0-5 start.

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Something weird is going on with Kitna

It’s a busy time for Lions insider Tom Kowalski as he tries to manuever through the NFL trade deadline rumors. Killer tells Stoney and Wojo on WDFN that, according to his sources, San Francisco is not interested, and Dallas is not likely to trade for Kitna. says that “something weird is going on with Jon Kitna.”

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Lions looking to trade Kitna?

The Lions might be swinging a deal before Tuesday’s trade deadline, but it probably won’t be for receiver Roy Williams.

During his press conference today, Lions head coach Rod Marinelli refused to answer any questions about his quarterback position and/or the health of quarterback Jon Kitna. With the Dallas Cowboys suddenly in need of a veteran quarterback, it’s possible the Lions are remaining mum because Kitna is the subject of trade talks with Dallas. It’s also possible that San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Mike Martz, based on the shaky recent performances of quarterback J.T. O’Sullivan, wants to be reunited with Kitna.