Former Lions CB Kindle Vildor Signs with Buccaneers, Looking for Fresh Start
Kindle Vildor is officially moving on from Detroit. The former Lions cornerback has agreed to a one-year deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, giving him a fresh opportunity after an up-and-down tenure in the Motor City.
Vildor’s time with the Lions will always be tied to one unforgettable play in the 2023 NFC Championship Game. A deflected pass bounced off his helmet and into the hands of 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk for a game-changing gain, a moment many fans point to as a turning point in Detroit’s heartbreaking loss. While that play lingers in memory, it’s important to note that Vildor was never supposed to be a key starter. He was brought in as depth but found himself thrust into larger roles due to injuries in the secondary.
Despite the criticism, Vildor showed flashes of solid play. He provided physicality and experience when called upon, even if consistency was an issue. The Buccaneers, looking to reshape their secondary, see potential in Vildor and are giving him a chance to prove himself in their system.
For the Lions, this move signals continued adjustments in their defensive backfield. With Vildor gone, Detroit will look to bolster their cornerback depth, either through free agency or the draft, as they aim to build a more reliable secondary for the 2025 season.
Once Controversial in Detroit, Ex-Lions CB Joins New Franchise
