in Lions Notes

Detroit Lions have Top 4 UDFA class

1.3k Views


After the dust settled from the 2023 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions quickly shifted their attention to the undrafted rookie free agents (UDFAs). The Lions made their mark by signing 15 UDFAs, solidifying their roster with hidden talents. Fantasy Pros’ Thor Nystrom, renowned for ranking UDFA classes, places the Lions at an impressive fourth position among all NFL teams.

2023 Detroit Lions backup quarterback Jessie Bates Pro Football Focus 2023 NFL Draft Thursday Night Football

Key Points

  • The Detroit Lions signed 15 undrafted free agents (UDFAs) following the 2023 NFL Draft.
  • Thor Nystrom ranks the Lions’ UDFA class fourth among all NFL teams.
  • The Lions acquired five prospects within Nystrom’s top 300 rankings.
  • Standout UDFAs include cornerback Starling Thomas V, running back Mohamed Ibrahim, safety Brandon Joseph, offensive tackle Ryan Swoboda, and offensive tackle Connor Galvin.

Why it Matters for Detroit Lions

This ranking holds significance as it highlights the team’s ability to find valuable players even after the draft, where all teams have equal opportunities. The Lions secured five prospects within Nystrom’s top 300 rankings, including standouts like cornerback Starling Thomas V, running back Mohamed Ibrahim, safety Brandon Joseph, offensive tackle Ryan Swoboda, and offensive tackle Connor Galvin.

Bottom Line – Unearthing Success in the Shadows

The Lions have demonstrated their prowess in identifying and signing undrafted free agents who possess immense potential. Thor Nystrom’s ranking of the Lions’ UDFA class as one of the top five in the league underscores the team’s ability to uncover talent that other teams may have overlooked. These hidden gems not only provide immediate depth and competition within the roster but also offer hope for the future. As the Lions continue to refine their scouting process and unearth exceptional undrafted players, they position themselves for sustained success. The impact of these signings may reverberate far beyond the current season, ultimately contributing to the team’s overall growth and competitiveness.

Written by W.G. Brady

W.G. Brady is a Detroit-based journalist who has been covering the Detroit sports scene for Detroit Sports Nation for several years. He is in his early 30s and has a wealth of experience in the industry. Throughout his career, W.G. has established himself as a respected and knowledgeable journalist known for his in-depth coverage of the teams and athletes in Detroit. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for sports, W.G. has become a go-to source for fans and readers looking for the latest news and analysis on the Detroit sports scene. He has a good reputation in the sports community and is respected for his unbiased coverage of sports events. W.G. is known for his ability to uncover hidden stories and provide unique perspectives on the teams and athletes he covers. He has a good understanding of the city of Detroit and its sports culture, which he uses to inform his reporting and analysis. He continues to be a respected journalist in the Detroit sports industry.

Detroit Red Wings win 1997 Stanley Cup

The Red Wings’ Epic Comeback: Revisiting the Triumphant 1997 Stanley Cup Finals

Rasheed Wallace Calls Out Doc Rivers’ Playoff Coaching Style: Is There Truth Behind the Criticism?