Quiet Lions RB Makes Instant Impact vs. Dolphins in Return from Injury
The Detroit Lions got a much-needed boost to their running back room earlier this week as they welcomed back second-year playmaker Sione Vaki. The start to training camp and preseason has been one to forget on the injury side for the Lions, who have seen several players placed on injured reserve.
The injury bug played a part in them falling short last year in the playoffs, so you have to believe that they were happy to get Vaki back.
Vaki sustained a leg injury on July 21, which kept him out for a few weeks, as he did not play in Detroit’s first two preseason games. With no Vaki on the field, it opened up other opportunities for running backs such as Jacob Saylors, Jabari Small, and Craig Reynolds to get some more reps.
However, with Vaki returning to practice on Wednesday and reportedly going through individual drills, it was only a matter of time before they got him back into a game.
Good to have RB Sione Vaki back from injury. Forced a fumble there on the punt return and nearly got on the ball. He's a really good special teamer.
Second-Year RB Sione Vaki Makes Preseason Debut Against Miami Dolphins
According to Lions senior writer and insider Tim Twentyman, Vaki made an instant impact on special teams, forcing a fumble on a punt return in the first quarter. The young running back made a good tackle on the returner and also got the ball back.
Given the star-studded depth at running back (Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery), Vaki’s best chance of getting playing time will be on special teams.
As a rookie, the former Utah Utes standout appeared in 16 games, where he had 51 yards from scrimmage on nine touches. However, most of his playing time came on special teams (310) in comparison to offense (26).
In Saturday’s exhibition game against Miami, the second-year running back played 19 offensive (second-most at RB behind Saylors) and five special teams snaps. With his limited playing time on offense, he made the most of his opportunity.
Vaki racked up 30 rushing yards on five carries, while adding two receptions (three targets) for 14 yards. He also showed off his pass protection skills, which you know Lions head coach Dan Campbell loves to see. For a young running back, being good in pass pro is another way to get on the field.
With there only being one preseason game left, it only makes sense for Vaki to get some more snaps as Detroit tries to end the exhibition slate on a high note.
