Detroit Lions running back Sione Vaki received a strong vote of confidence from head coach Dan Campbell during minicamp. However, one analyst believes the third-year player will still have to fight for his future with the team.

NFL analyst Vito Chirco of Sports Illustrated on Saturday wrote that if Vaki doesn’t perform this season, it would be difficult to see him back in Detroit.

“His special teams contributions might not be enough to earn him a spot on the Lions’ season-opening roster,” said Chirco. “Vaki will be entering the most critical training camp of his career this summer.”

Vaki has provided depth in the backfield and has been used on the Lions' special teams. He has accumulated just 55 yards from scrimmage and has gotten only 10 offensive touches, but has recorded 18 tackles on special teams.

Despite the limited touches and production, HC Campbell was full of praise for the former fourth-round pick.

“He has got ability,” said Campbell. “He is another guy - you just watch some of the - pound for pound, he is one of our best athletes. He is explosive, he’s strong, he’s quick, there are things about him.”

However, Campbell also explained how Vaki will need to work on his position as he’s barely played running back in the NFL.

“The running back position is a little raw,” said Campbell. “He has been in there, he did a little bit in college, this is year three, but he hasn’t played running back, not that much. A lot of it is injury and then the other two guys who have been ahead of him.

According to ClutchPoints writer Yago Antunes, Sione Vaki could have a breakout season in 2026. However, he’s not the only one.

Lions’ 2025 third-round pick touted to have a breakout season

Antunes believes the Lions’ 2025 third-round pick could also break out this season, along with Vaki. He believes that wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa could be one to keep an eye on this season.

“A receiver with TeSlaa’s size-speed profile can win vertically, maneuver through contact, and create scoring opportunities in the red zone,” wrote Antunes.

TeSlaa is not just tall at six-foot-four but also very quick with a 40-yard dash time of 4.43 seconds. He recorded 16 receptions for 239 receiving yards and six touchdowns, averaged 14.9 yards per catch, and played all games for the Lions.

According to Antunes, TeSlaa's size makes him ideal for providing coverage and disrupting plays.

"Detroit's offense already challenges defenses to cover every inch of the field, and adding a bigger target who can threaten downfield complicates defensive strategies," the Clutchpoints writer added.

Antunes also mentions how a breakout season might not mean a 1,000-yard performance but more touches, a few explosive plays, and valuable contributions in the red zone.

How do you think TeSlaa will perform this season? Let us know your expectations in the comments!

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Written by

Dhruv Vishnu Nair

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit