Lions sign running back Matt Asiata to a one-year deal

DETROIT (AP/WJBK) - The Detroit Lions have signed veteran running back Matt Asiata to a one-year deal.

The team made it official Tuesday while also making other roster moves including waiving fullback Michael Burton.

Asiata played the past five seasons with the Minnesota Vikings.

The agreement doesn't come as a huge surprise. Asiata rushed for 402 yards last season for Minnesota, more than any Detroit player managed. In five NFL seasons, Asiata has rushed for 1,259 yards on 361 carries.

When asked a couple weeks ago about what Asiata can bring to an offense, Detroit coach Jim Caldwell said: "He's a good special teamer. He's tough. He's a very good pass protector and he carries the ball. He runs behind his pads. He's always been a very, very effective player in this league."

Burton has played 31 games for the Lions with four career carries.

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