The Detroit Lions’ efforts to retool their roster are still in progress, and their lastest cap casualty will be cornerback Justin Coleman.

Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports that the Lions plan to release Coleman, ending his two-year stint in Detroit. In 2019, the Lions signed Coleman to a four-year, $36 million contract. The deal made Coleman one of the highest-paid slot cornerbacks in NFL history.

Lions are planning to release CB Justin Coleman, a source said
— Dave Birkett (@davebirkett) March 11, 2021

“The move will happen before the start of the league year. Coleman was due $8.9 million this fall. Depending on if the move is given a June 1st designation, the Lions will save between $5 million and $9 million of cap space,” Birkett tweeted.

Sep 8, 2019; Glendale, AZ, USA; Detroit Lions cornerback Justin Coleman (27) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

If the Lions release Coleman before June 1st, they’ll save at least $4.94 million in cap room. However, if Coleman is a post-June 1st release, the savings could go as high as $9 million.

In two seasons with the Lions, Coleman recorded 69 tackles, three forced fumbles (recovering one), and an interception.

Coleman’s release is another move by the Lions to rid themselves from the Matt Patricia-Bob Quinn “Patriot Way”. Before playing for the Lions, Coleman had previous stints with the Seattle Seahawks, and the New England Patriots.