Two-Ton Toniu Returns

Lost in the buzz regarding the arrival of linebacker Larry Foote in Detroit was the dusting off of a once-promising offensive lineman who ate his way out of the league. The Lions have signed Two-Ton Toniu Fonoti. He has spent two full seasons out of the game, having last stretched to its limits the aqua and coral uniform of the Dolphins. Prior to that, he spent a year with the Vikings and four with the Chargers. Entering the league in 2002, Fonoti has had only two productive seasons. He started 14 games in his rookie year and 16 in his third year. But his size (when not on the wrong side of 350), his potential, and a mean streak longer than the hair that hangs well out of his helmet continued to prompt teams to take a chance on him. In the 2007 offseason, he practiced with the Falcons, but didn’t make the final roster. Ditto in Carolina last year. In Detroit, it could be his last chance to make it -- and arguably his best, given the general condition of the offensive line. The Lions also have added defensive end Eric Hicks, who was extensive experience with Lions defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham in Kansas City. The ten-year veteran played nine years for the Chiefs, and one with the Jets. From 1999 through 2005, Hicks was a full-time start for the Chiefs. He assumed reserve status in 2006, and then played in eleven games with no starts for the Jets in 2007. He was out of football last year.