Facts And Prospects About New Lions Utah’s Sione Vaki.
The Detroit Lions picked up a pair of players with Polynesian roots on Day 3 of the 2024 NFL draft. The first was a project pick, British Columbia tackle Giovanni Manu. The second is Utah’s Sione Vaki, their selecting with the 132nd overall pick.
Although announced as a running back, Vaki primarily played as a safety during his time at Utah. Last season, he registered 51 tackles, two sacks, and one interception.
On the offensive side, he accumulated over 500 yards, rushing for 317 yards and two touchdowns, while also making 11 receptions for 203 yards and three touchdowns.
“I’m going to play wherever they need me to play,” Vaki told reporters after the Lions selected him.
Vaki hails from Antioch, California, where he attended Liberty High School as a three-star recruit. His talent quickly shone through as he transitioned to college football at Utah.
In 2023, he garnered recognition as a finalist for both the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year and the Paul Hornung Award. He was also named an All-American as an all-purpose player and safety, in addition to earning a spot on the All-Pac-12 team. During his time at Utah, Vaki played in 26 games, starting in 17 of them.
During an interview with his alma mater’s team reporter, Vaki revealed on of his hidden talents is that he can sing.
Of all the quarterbacks he would want to get an interception off of, Vaki said San Francisco 49ers quarterback tops his list. “I would love to pick off Purdy, man,” Vaki said last November. “If that’s a dream that could come true, let’s do it.
Along with the Lions and 49ers–both of whom he had Top 30 visits with, Vaki had private workouts scheduled with the Seattle Seahawks, Buffalo Bills, and New York Giants recently. The New England Patriots, Cincinnati Bengals, and the New Orleans Saints also had meetings with him at his Pro Day.