SV #33

Sione Vaki

Running Back · Utah

A do-everything Utah product who Detroit drafted as a hybrid running back and safety, earning a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2024.

Sione Vaki is a versatile weapon out of Utah who played both running back and safety in college, a rare skill set that made him a fourth-round target for the Lions after a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles. In Detroit, he has carved out a role as a rushing, receiving, and special-teams contributor.

★ PFWA All-Rookie Team (2024)

★ First-team All-Pac-12 as both safety and special teamer (2023) at Utah

★ Hornung Award finalist (2023)

Path to the league

Vaki split time at running back and safety during his final two seasons at Utah, finishing as a finalist for the Hornung Award given to college football's most versatile player. In 2023 he rushed for 317 yards and two touchdowns while adding 203 receiving yards and three touchdowns on offense, and racked up 92 tackles with an interception on defense, earning first-team All-Pac-12 honors as both a safety and special teamer. The Lions traded up with the Eagles to select him in the fourth round, 132nd overall, in 2024.

Career highlights

As a rookie in 2024, Vaki appeared in all 16 games, contributing on offense, special teams, and defense while earning a spot on the Pro Football Writers Association's All-Rookie Team. His versatility has made him a valuable depth piece for Detroit beyond a traditional running back role.

2025 season recap

Vaki played in 11 games in 2025, seeing limited offensive touches with one rushing attempt for four yards while continuing to contribute on defense and special teams, including kick returns and 10 tackles.