Lions’ Head Coach Dan Campbell Opens up About Versatile Rookie Running Back

Preseason games offer rookies a golden opportunity to stand out, and fourth-round pick Sione Vaki seized that chance for the Detroit Lions in Week 2 of the exhibition season.

Vaki didn’t just make an impact on the ground—his versatility was on full display in the Lions' 24-23 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.

Vaki rushed for 22 yards on six carries, finishing second on the team in rushing yards. But his real contributions came in the passing game, where the Utah product hauled in four receptions for 60 yards. Vaki also returned a kickoff for 19 yards, adding to his all-around performance.

Head coach Dan Campbell couldn’t have been more pleased with Vaki’s effort.

“In the pass game, I thought he really stepped up,” Campbell told reporters . “Man, the 2-minute drive at the end of the game… Wow, that was huge. He was making play after play, and he’s tired, and he keeps going. You felt growth from him today as well.”

That growth was evident during the Lions’ 83-yard drive late in the second quarter, with Vaki accounting for 51 of those yards. While Detroit settled for a field goal, Vaki’s impact in the backfield was undeniable.

"I would say the more you learn about a player and the faster you figure out what they can do, the better off it is for everybody,” Campbell continued. “We already felt like this kid was going to have the ability to play special teams. So now it’s like, ‘Well, can you use him on offense? Is there a place?’

With David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs firmly established as the Lions' top two backs and Craig Reynolds likely slotted as the third option, Vaki may not see significant playing time this season. However, his performance has made it clear that if an injury arises, Vaki could be the next man up due to his ability to be multiple as a playmaker.

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