Positional versatility is a quality that franchises value from players signed to their rosters. Beyond the cornerstones at certain spots, having players with skill sets that allow them to be interchangeable can drive opposing coaches crazy when setting up a game plan. The Detroit Lions added a player to the fold on Tuesday who is capable of doing just that.
According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the Lions have agreed to sign free agent wide receiver/quarterback Malik Cunningham to their practice squad roster. While he may be listed as a WR/QB, Cunningham is simply an athlete who is capable of impacting a game in a variety of ways. After racking up over 3,100 rushing yards and 50 touchdowns during his collegiate career, there is no doubt that the former Louisville Cardinals star has a nose for the end zone.
Lions Add New Potential Weapon to Practice Squad in Malik Cunningham
Cunningham went undrafted in 2023 after concluding his collegiate career at Louisville. He quickly found a home in the NFL, though, as the New England Patriots signed him, and Cunningham ultimately made the team's practice squad coming out of training camp.
The newest member of the Lions only embraced his potential as a wide receiver once he left New England and joined the Baltimore Ravens, where he joined forces with another former Louisville star in Lamar Jackson. This is why his addition to the practice squad after the opening two weeks of play is something that should pique the interest of fans across the Motor City.
As a former QB, Cunningham is already adept at reading opposing defenses before the snap. By lining up on the outside, rather than under center, Cunningham will still be able to see all the same things he did while orchestrating the offense. They will just be presented to him from a different angle.
After being clocked at a 4.53 40-yard dash during his time at the NFL Combine, coupled with impressive 10 and 20-yard splits of 1.51 seconds and 2.6 seconds, embracing the move from QB to WR is something that could pay off for Cunningham in a big way.
By joining the Lions' practice squad, Cunningham can continue to perfect his route-running tree while learning the offense in anticipation of his number being called. If that time does come, everything we have seen from Cunningham to this point on the football field should only set him up for success.