A college connection is coming back to life in Detroit.

The two-time Super Bowl winner Isiah Pacheco didn’t hide his excitement after his former teammate Christian Izein arrived in the Motor City.

Christian Izein and Isiah Pacheco were recently signed by the Detroit Lions in the legal tampering window. The reunion traces back to their days with the Rutgers Scarlet Knights football.

NFL Insider Jordan Schultz posted a graphic of the former Bucs star coming to the Lions. Pacheco took that post to his Instagram story. While it did not have any words, the message seemed to be clear.

Both Izien and Pacheco joined Rutgers in 2017. Izien played five seasons (2018-2022) as a defensive back. In 46 games, he recorded 303 total tackles, 15 pass deflections, 4 interceptions, and 3 fumble recoveries. 

Isiah Pacheco emerged as one of the program’s most explosive offensive players. He rushed for 2442 yards, 563 carries, and 18 touchdowns.

After leaving Rutgers, Isiah Pacheco was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2022. During his time, he played in 51 games, covering 2537 yards, 14 touchdowns, 576 attempts, and 88 carries. 

Isiah Pacheco signed a four-year rookie contract worth $3.74 million with $934.7K as the average salary of $934.7K and a $79K signing bonus. Following the completion of that rookie deal, Pacheco became an unrestricted free agent heading into 2026.

Meanwhile, Christian Izien began his professional career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023. He played for 45 games with the Buccaneers with 111 solo tackles, 5 passes defended, and 3 interceptions.  

How the Former Rutgers Duo Could Strengthen the Detroit Lions

The reunion of Isiah and Izien will give the Lions a boost on both the defense and the offensive lineups.

Pacheco brings proven production and championship experience after winning two Super Bowls with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Known for his explosive running style and physical downhill approach, the running back adds energy to Detroit’s backfield and could complement the Lions’ run-heavy offensive identity while helping keep pressure off quarterback Jared Goff.

On the defensive lineup, Izien adds versatility and depth to the secondary. Izien’s familiarity with Pacheco from their days with Rutgers could also help strengthen locker-room chemistry.

They might not be able to create the “Sonic and Knuckles” philosophy, which Jahmyr Gibbs and the former Lions' player David Montgomery shared. However, the duo offers a mix of experience, athleticism, and built-in familiarity that could benefit Detroit on both sides of the ball.

What do you think about this Rutgers reunion in Detroit? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Kalp Thaker