For 15 straight seasons, at least one undrafted rookie has clawed his way onto the Detroit Lions’ final roster—and 2025 might not break that streak, even with the team’s depth at an all-time high.
Following the 2025 NFL Draft, the Lions initially signed 10 undrafted free agents (UDFAs). But the roster reshuffling began quickly. Tight end Caden Prieskorn and center Leif Fautanu were released after rookie minicamp, replaced by TE Luke Deal and edge rusher Keith Cooper. Later, cornerback Gavin Holmes was also cut during OTAs.
So, with a tough climb ahead and only a few spots up for grabs, who really has a shot?
Reading Between the Contract Lines
UDFA contracts may look basic, but they offer hidden clues. Besides the standard $845,000 base salary, rookies can receive signing bonuses and guaranteed salary portions—both used by teams to entice priority targets. The more guaranteed money a player gets, the more seriously the team views their chances.
In 2025, the Lions had around $206,000 to spread among their UDFA signings. Players like wide receivers Jakobie Keeney-James and Jackson Meeks received $20,000 signing bonuses—historically a benchmark for sticking around in Detroit. Cooper also reportedly received guarantees, though his late signing raises questions about the accuracy of those numbers.
Wide Receivers in the Spotlight
It’s clear Detroit sees potential in this UDFA wide receiver group. Not only did they draft Isaac TeSlaa and Dominic Lovett, but they also handed sizable guarantees to Keeney-James and Meeks. Under GM Brad Holmes, UDFAs with top-2 signing bonuses have typically made it through their rookie year with the team—except for one case in 2022.
That could mean a real opportunity for all four rookie receivers—perhaps with the active roster for some, and the practice squad for others.
Talent Trumps Contracts in Detroit’s Culture
Still, guaranteed money isn’t everything.
Detroit has built a reputation for valuing merit over money. Just last season, eight of 15 UDFAs stuck around—including players with minimal guarantees. In contrast, Connor Galvin, one of the highest-paid 2023 UDFAs, lasted just two years on the practice squad before being released.
That unpredictability adds excitement—and pressure—for this year’s class.
No Time to Waste
While a few rookies have a financial head start, most will need to earn their place quickly. UDFAs who receive under $20,000 in bonuses and less than $100,000 in total guarantees usually get only a couple chances in camp to make a strong impression. And in a team as stacked as the 2025 Lions, the window doesn’t stay open long.
So who’s the next Brock Wright or Obinna Eze? Will one of these UDFAs turn heads in July and steal a roster spot?
One thing’s certain: history says someone will rise. The question is—who?