Corey Fuller

Tight end Brandon Pettigrew and receiver Corey Fuller will miss the first six games of the season after the Detroit Lions placed them on the reserve/physically unable to perform (PUP) list Tuesday.

Pettigrew has not been able to practice since tearing his ACL in a game against the Rams on Dec. 13. Coach Jim Caldwell has refused to answer any questions about his status, his recovery or when he's expected to return.

The Lions TE situation is a bit of a mystery. Eric Ebron has been out and his status is up in the air for Week 1. Matthew Mulligan was cut which made Pettigrew the team's best blocking option. Tim Wright is out for the year. That leaves Cole Wick as the first team option and the story said he could get the start Week 1 if Ebron isn't ready. With Pettigrew out six weeks at least, Wick should have a role even when Ebron is back.