Lions trade DT Akeem Spence to Dolphins for draft pick

Published May. 3, 2018 7:15 p.m. ET

MIAMI (AP) -- Defensive tackle Akeem Spence has been acquired by the Miami Dolphins from the Detroit Lions for a late-round draft pick in 2019.

The Dolphins swung the deal announced Thursday to plug a hole created when they released five-time Pro Bowl tackle Ndamukong Suh for salary cap reasons. Spence will join a rotation at tackle that also includes Jordan Phillips, Davon Godchaux and Vincent Taylor.

Spence has 41 starts in a five-year NFL career. He was with Tampa Bay in 2013-16, and started 11 games for the Lions last year. His career totals include 8 sacks, one forced fumble and three fumble recoveries.

Spence was a fourth-round pick by Tampa Bay in 2013. He grew up in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.