Just in: Detroit Lions Finalize Deal With Running Back.

According to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, the Detroit Lions have formally signed Sione Vaki, their recent draft pick, to a four-year rookie deal, ensuring he will be on the field before the team’s first practice on Friday. Vaki, who was selected 132nd overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, has agreed to a contract worth around $4.67 million, according to Spotrac.

The terms of the NFL’s current collective bargaining agreement predetermine rookie contracts, which often simplifies the negotiation process. However, the timeframe of signings may vary depending on conversations about guaranteed amounts and other contract details. Historically, the Lions have signed the majority of their draft class before rookie minicamp begins.

Although Vaki’s undergraduate career at Utah highlighted his flexibility as a safety and running back, the Lions intend to use him on offense in the NFL. Additionally, Vaki is slated to play an important part on special teams beginning this autumn. His diverse skill set provides crucial depth and flexibility to the Lions’ roster as they prepare for the next season.

Sione Vaki’s signing prior to the commencement of rookie minicamp shows the Detroit Lions’ efficient effort to quickly and easily integrate their draft picks into the organization. With Vaki now officially under contract, the Lions can focus on improving his diversified offensive and special teams skills, increasing their roster depth as they prepare for the upcoming season.

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T.J. Hockenson trade results are finalized: Here is what the Detroit Lions got.

During the 2022 NFL trade deadline, the Detroit Lions traded tight end T.J. Hockenson to the Minnesota Vikings for a number of draft picks. As a reminder, these are the trade terms for both teams:

The Lions got:

2023 second-round pick (55th overall)
2024 third-round pick (73).

The Vikings got:

T. J. Hockenson
2023 fourth-round selection (119)
2024 fourth-round pick (129).
All of the Lions’ picks in this deal have been accounted for. Here’s what the Lions received in that trade:

2023 second-round pick (55th overall)

It’s difficult to determine the exact value the Lions received for this pick because they traded back from 55 to 63 to 68. Here’s the total amount of the two trade downs:

Got:

Quarterback Hendon Hooker (68th overall)
Pick 122 overall (fourth round)—Part of the trade-up package for Brodric Martin.
Pick 139 overall (fifth round)—Part of the trade-up package for Brodric Martin.
Pick 249 overall (seventh round) was traded away in the D’Andre Swift trade.

Lost:

• Pick 63 overall
• 183rd overall (sixth round)
• 194th overall (sixth round)

So, in essence, the trade netted the Lions Hendon Hooker and a portion of Brodric Martin in 2023.