Akeem Spence Traded to Dolphins; Lions Receive 2019 NFL Draft Pick in Return

The Miami Dolphins have acquired defensive tackle Akeem Spence from the Detroit Lions. 

Per an official announcement from the Lions, they will receive an undisclosed 2019 draft pick from the Dolphins in exchange for Spence.

Spence was a fourth-round pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2013. He spent the first four years of his career with the team, appearing in 56 games during that span. 

The Lions signed Spence to a three-year deal last offseason. The 26-year-old appeared in all 16 games during the 2017 season, making 11 starts, and tied his career high with three sacks. 

Per Pro Football Focus, Spence's 76.7 overall grade last season was the highest of his career. 

The Dolphins needed to add more depth in the middle of their defensive line after releasing Ndamukong Suh in March. Spence gives defensive coordinator Matt Burke another option for his rotation in 2018 with Davon Godchaux, Jordan Phillips and Vincent Taylor also on the roster.