Detroit Lions running back Sione Vaki has not had a great start to his second year, as he’s dealt with a leg injury in training camp, which hindered him during the preseason. And then he missed Week 1 with a hamstring injury, only adding to the fan base's concerns.
Fortunately, the Lions received positive news about Vaki’s status for Week 2, as he was listed as a limited participant at Wednesday’s practice. If Vaki can play this weekend, he won’t likely factor into the offensive game plan, but that doesn't mean he can't contribute in another area, which has special teams coordinator Dave Fipp ecstatic.
“Vaki, he’s just a tremendous talent…. You want a guy who’s 200+ pounds who’s very strong, very quick, very physical. He’s athletic, so he can change direction, Fipp said when asked about the young running back’s return to practice (h/t Nolan Bianchi of The Detroit News).
Lions Coach Looking Forward to Having a Healthy Sione Vaki Back
Heading into the 2024 NFL draft, there was some buzz surrounding the versatility of Vaki, who played safety at the University of Utah, but also had a few opportunities to play running back.
Vaki stood out in those opportunities as a running back, as he also showcased his ability to be a solid pass catcher out of the backfield. He didn’t run the best time at the NFL Scouting Combine with a 4.62 40-yard dash.
Vaki’s athleticism and special teams experience as a collegiate kick returner caught the Lions’ attention. Vaki appeared in 16 games as a rookie, but mostly played on special teams under Fipp. In the limited kick return opportunities he received, he averaged 27.5 yards on two returns.
With the NFL’s extra emphasis on the kick return game this season, Vaki could improve on that number if given the opportunity, but it's about him staying healthy. No matter the sport, a player's best ability is their ability.
In last week’s regular-season opener, the Lions had running back Jacob Saylors and linebacker Grant Stuard handling kick returns. Saylors, who was called up from the practice squad in place of Vaki, averaged 23 yards per kick return (four returns). Meanwhile, Stuard had one return for 24 yards.
That said, if Vaki can practice over the next two days and hopefully be a full participant, he will most likely take Saylors’ spot on the kick return for Sunday’s game against the Chicago Bears. And if he can make an immediate impact, the Lions' outlook will be even more promising because of it.