Best UFL players for the Detroit Lions after Week 1 of the 2025 season, including Michigan Panthers DB
Around this time last year, Detroit Lions fans found themselves glued to the TV to watch a kid from the UFL captivate the football world. That kid, of course, was Michigan Panthers kicker Jake Bates. Once the UFL season concluded, the Lions signed Bates, and he became a huge part of the 2025 Lions' 15-2 […]
Around this time last year, Detroit Lions fans found themselves glued to the TV to watch a kid from the UFL captivate the football world. That kid, of course, was Michigan Panthers kicker Jake Bates.
Once the UFL season concluded, the Lions signed Bates, and he became a huge part of the 2025 Lions' 15-2 season. This was definitely not the Lions, or any other NFL teams, last dip into the UFL. Others will get chances at camp. Here are some guys to keep an eye on for the Lions after Week 1.
Jarveon Howard, RB, St. Louis Battlehawks
The Lions have been keeping their eyes peeled for running backs this offseason. At this point it's looking like they'll either walk out of the draft with one or will sign one or two as an undrafted free agent.
Howard, who has spent time with the Packers, had a really nice game against the Houston Roghnecks. He ran for 115 yards and a touchdown. He can play.
Charlie Thomas III, LB, Arlington Renegades
The Lions sure do love them some linebackers don't they? How about another one? Thomas spent some time with the Browns in 2023, but he hasn't had another shot in the NFL since. Maybe a strong performance with seven tackles and two pass breakups against the San Antonio Bramhas would help.
Kai Nacua, S, Michigan Panthers
The Lions just lost Ifeatu Melifonwu to the Dolphins, and they could use some safety depth. While we do think that Avonte Maddox is going to take that spot, there's going to be a competition at camp, and the veteran Nacua should be in on that competition. He had a good game in Week 1. He had six tackles, a pass breakup, and an 80-yard pick six.
Anthony Hines III, LB, DC Defenders
What a game for Hines in week one. He had six solo tackles, two sacks, and a fumble recovery. At 26 years old, he's a guy who should get another shot at the NFL and the Lions do need some pass rush depth.
