ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -The Detroit Lions signed free agent tight end Michael Gaines, who is coming off the best season of his four-year NFL career.

The 6-foot-3, 277-pound Gaines made 25 catches for 215 yards and two touchdowns in his only season with the Buffalo Bills.

Prior to arriving in Buffalo, Gaines spent the previous three seasons with the Carolina Panthers.

Gaines is expected to be used primarily as a blocking back, since the Lions are looking to improve their running attack. The signing was announced Monday.