US.Lions Rookie Talent Misses Practice After Donating Blood to Save Mother Who Underwent Life-Saving Heart Valve Surgery.
Detroit, MI – The Detroit Lions entered today’s practice with one notable absence, but the reason was not due to a snap count or an injury report. Instead, it was an act of loyalty and family sacrifice.
Team officials confirmed that a young player was excused from practice after donating blood earlier this week to support his mother during a heart valve replacement surgery. He was listed asDid Not Participate, though coaches stressed the decision was both personal and commendable.
That player is Sione Vaki, the versatile running back and safety hybrid taken in thefourth round (No. 132 overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Utah. Valued by head coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes for his toughness and flexibility, Vaki embodies Detroit’s “football player” mentality — a do-it-all teammate willing to fill any role.
Through the first four weeks of 2025, Vaki’s stat line has been quiet on offense. He has logged 0 carries, 0 receptions, 0 yards, and 0 touchdowns, as the backfield dominance of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery has left little opportunity for rotational snaps. Gibbs himself exploded for 254 rushing yards in Week 3.
Instead, Vaki’s value has shined on special teams, where he recorded 2 tackles this season. It’s a continuation of the role he thrived in as a rookie in 2024, when he led all Lions rookies with8 special-teams tackles, making him a reliable presence in punt and kick coverage.
The Lions, now 3-1 and leading the NFC North, have powered through with one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses, averaging41 points per game. While the defense has shown occasional lapses (notably in Week 1), Vaki’s versatility ensures he remains a trusted depth option across multiple phases.
Head coach Dan Campbell spoke highly of the young player’s decision:“What Sione did this week speaks volumes about who he is. He’s the kind of teammate who will sacrifice anything — on the field or off it. We’re proud of him.”
For Lions fans, Vaki has already become a symbol of toughness and commitment, even if his stat line doesn’t yet reflect it. His absence today was about family, but his impact on Detroit’s culture is undeniable.
