ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- Wide receiver and kick returner Devin Thomas has ended his brief retirement to sign with the Detroit Lions.

The team made the announcement Thursday.

Thomas retired last summer after trying to earn a spot on the Chicago Bears' roster.

The Washington Redskins selected him out of Michigan State in the second round of the 2008 draft and cut him two years later. He was with Washington, Carolina and the New York Giants in 2010. He played for the Giants in 2011, his last year in the league.

Thomas has 43 career receptions for 482 yards and three touchdowns. He has returned 60 kickoffs.

The Lions need depth at receiver because Nate Burleson and Ryan Broyles are recovering from injuries and Titus Young's future with the team isn't clear.