Detroit Lions rookie Sione Vaki revealed a surprising and remarkable hidden talent after practice on Thursday, leaving both fans and teammates in awe. Vaki, a running back out of Utah, is known for his on-field abilities, but it’s his off-field skills that are now generating buzz.
Head coach Dan Campbell had hinted at Vaki’s unexpected talent, describing the 23-year-old as having a “phenomenal voice” before the rookie took center stage to serenade the media. When Vaki began singing a portion of “East Side High 2012 & Forever” by BJ the Chicago Kid, those present were treated to a soulful, smooth performance that showcased his incredible vocal range.
Vaki didn’t just stick to the basics—he even hit a falsetto, impressing everyone with his control and emotional delivery. By the time he wrapped up his impromptu performance, it was clear that Vaki’s talents extend far beyond the gridiron.
Fans quickly took to social media to express their astonishment and admiration for Vaki’s singing. “BRO HAS THE VOICE OF AN ANGEL,” one fan exclaimed on X (formerly Twitter). Another commented, “He was actually meant to be a singer,” echoing the sentiment of many who were taken aback by Vaki’s musical prowess.
Some fans even suggested that Vaki should perform the national anthem before a Lions game, while another enthusiastic supporter declared, “We really got the best team in the NFL,” clearly impressed by the team’s diverse talents. One particularly inspired fan tagged former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, suggesting that Vaki be featured on Kelce’s next Christmas album—a nod to Kelce’s own ventures into music.
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Before this standout performance, Campbell had mentioned that Vaki’s previous singing attempt for his teammates had been less than stellar, describing it as “eh.” However, Vaki’s Thursday rendition proved to be anything but, as he confidently showed off his vocal chops.
While Vaki’s voice is earning him accolades off the field, he’s still working to make an impact on it. Currently, Vaki is competing for a spot on the Lions’ roster, finding himself behind established players like David Montgomery, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Craig Reynolds on the depth chart. Despite this, Vaki made a notable impression during Detroit’s recent preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs, where he recorded six carries for 22 yards and added four catches for 60 receiving yards.
As the NFL’s final roster cut deadline of August 27 approaches, Vaki’s future with the Lions remains uncertain.
However, whether he makes the final roster or not, it’s clear that Sione Vaki has already made a lasting impression—both as an athlete and as a singer. Fans will undoubtedly be keeping an eye on his journey, eager to see how his talents unfold both on the field and off.
