With the conclusion of the 2026 NFL draft last week, it's now time for signing undrafted players. The Detroit Lions recently signed offensive lineman Melvin Priestly.

Priestly is one of the six players from Illinois’ Music City Bowl-winning team who signed as undrafted free agents. He shared his excitement in a recent interview with Courtney Layne Brewer of WCIA, Illinois.

“Man, I wish I could have left Sunday and been out there,” Priestly said. “But I’m very excited… I feel like I’ve got a lot to prove. And Detroit, I’m coming.”

The former two-star recruit (East St. Louis) earned his shot after starting 26 games in two seasons for the Illinois Fighting Illini.

He is not coming alone. Quarterback Luke Altmyer is also joining Detroit, giving Priestly a familiar face as he begins his NFL journey.

“When I saw that… I almost cried because Luke is my guy,” Priestly said. “They like football players like us. So I think we both in a good opportunity.”

At quarterback, Luke Altmyer adds depth after throwing for 3,007 yards, 22 touchdowns, and five interceptions.

The Lions also secured several other key undrafted free agents across the roster.

Who Else Signed UDFA With The Detroit Lions?

Detroit added tight end Miles Kitselman, who had 26 catches for 253 yards last season with the Tennessee Volunteers. He is expected to compete for a backup role and help on special teams.

In the secondary, the team signed cornerback De’Shawn Rucker from the South Florida Bulls. He recorded 58 tackles, four passes defended, and one interception last season.

Detroit also signed linebacker Erick Hunter, who led his team with 102 tackles and added strong plays behind the line. Defensive lineman Aidan Keanaaina joins too after posting 101 tackles.

Other additions include edge rusher Anthony Lucas, defensive back Aamaris Brown, and linebacker Eric O'Neill.

In a 53-man roster, signing UDFA means providing the Lions with vital competition for roster spots and depth roles. Starting May 11, the Lions will begin evaluating players in the seven-week rookie development program, as they have canceled their minicamp for this year.

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Written by

Anjali Thakur

Edited by

Rudra Dubey