The Detroit Lions have announced that they have released tight end Tony Scheffler.

The 30-year-old joined the NFC North side in 2010, but has suffered a series of concussions during his spell with the team, restricting him to 14 starts in three-and-a-half seasons.

Scheffler's spot on the club's roster was taken by offensive tackle Barry Richardson, who spent the last campaign with the St Louis Rams.

The Detroit Lions have a 4-3 record so far this season.