Vaki impresses at first Lions rookie minicamp practice.
After watching fourth-round pick Sione Vaki take part in the first open rookie minicamp practice on Friday, it’s easy to see why the Detroit Lions fell in love with his game in the pre-draft process.
He was dominant in special teams periods, at one point getting to the returner first for what would have been a tackle (no hitting or pads in minicamp) on three straight reps he took part in on the coverage team.
In individual running back drills, he showed terrific footwork, agility, and balance, despite the fact the safety-turned-running back had just 42 carries in college after agreeing to move to offense because of injuries at the position. He chipped in 317 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while catching 11 passes for 203 yards and three more scores.
Vaki showed off terrific hands and good route-running ability in individual drills with the running backs and quarterbacks and in 7-on-7 periods. The Lions are excited about his offensive prowess and it’s easy to see why.
Vaki is excited to be a weapon for talented young Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson.
“It’s exciting to be on the offensive side of the ball,” Vaki said after practice Friday. “I know we only got a sneak peek, a little taste of what he can actually do, but being out there catching the ball and being in his offense, man, it’s fun, it’s really fun.”
How can Vaki not be excited to join this Detroit offense led by Johnson?
