The Detroit Lions have been one of the NFL’s most talked-about teams this offseason. As clearly a top contender, the Lions have drawn attention with some of their high profile deals and draft picks. While much of the attention has focused on new arrivals and star players, one under-the-radar name is generating significant buzz inside the organization: running back Sione Vaki. Though not a rookie, Vaki is emerging as a potential breakout candidate, impressing coaches with his versatility, work ethic, and special teams prowess.
According to NBC Sports, running backs coach Tashard Choice has been outspoken in his praise for Vaki’s offseason performance. “You know what, I am very impressed by him right now,” Choice said, highlighting Vaki’s quickness, suddenness, and relentless work ethic. “He has the speed and the quickness and he has to tune some stuff on his game, but the fact he’s coachable and listens and he works at it, so for me so far, it’s my job to get him better.” Choice also noted Vaki’s standout contributions on special teams, both in coverage and return units, and emphasized the player’s coachability and adaptability.
Vaki’s performance on special teams has been absolutely outstanding. Last season, he earned a Pro Football Focus (PFF) special teams grade above 90, an achievement that sets him apart not just among running backs, but across the entire league. For comparison, the next highest-graded running backs on special teams were Jordan Mason (just over 82), Isaiah Davis (just under 82), and Khalil Herbert (just under 81). Vaki’s grade places him in the top 10 of all NFL players in special teams performance, making him one of the most valuable contributors in the third phase of the game.
Vaki’s college career hinted at his potential, particularly as a receiver out of the backfield. When compared to Lions star Jahmyr Gibbs, Vaki’s final college season saw him post a higher overall offensive grade (94.0 vs. 90.1) and a significantly better receiving grade (93.1 vs. 74.8). While Gibbs was a slightly better pure runner, Vaki’s versatility as a pass-catcher adds a valuable dimension to Detroit’s offense.
With established backs like Gibbs and David Montgomery ahead of him on the depth chart, Vaki’s immediate contributions may still come primarily on special teams. However, the Lions are well aware of the importance of depth at running back, especially after injuries derailed their defense last season. Should injuries strike the backfield, Vaki appears ready to step in and contribute. His development could also have long-term implications. Montgomery is approaching age 30 and carries a sizable cap hit. This makes him a likely candidate for release after the season, a move that would save the Lions $6 million in salary cap space. Vaki’s emergence gives Detroit flexibility for the future, potentially slotting him as the number two back in 2026.
It’s very well documented that championship teams aren’t built on stars alone. It’s the versatile, coachable, and cost-effective players like Vaki who often make the difference in the postseason. Their positional versatility and special teams acumen often can carry their teams through the juggernaut that is a Super Bowl run. The New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs have demonstrated the value of such core contributors during their dynastic runs, and the Lions appear to be following a similar blueprint.
With new kickoff rules expected to increase the importance of the return game, Vaki could see more opportunities as a kick returner, further boosting his value. Even if he remains primarily a special teams ace, his ability to fill multiple roles makes him a key piece of Detroit’s roster both in the short and long term. As the Lions gear up for what could be a special season, Sione Vaki is poised to play a bigger part than many expected, proving that sometimes, the most important moves are the ones that happen quietly, behind the scenes.
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