By Sunday 
It’s not often you see a rookie run for over 1,200 yards in college and still be on the outside looking in during training camp. But that’s the tough reality of the NFL — and right now, it might be hitting Anthony Tyus III harder than expected.
From MAC Star to Roster Long Shot?
The Detroit Lions picked up Anthony Tyus III as an undrafted free agent this offseason after a breakout final year at Ohio. Transferring from Northwestern, Tyus absolutely cooked in 2024 — rushing for 1,215 yards and 9 touchdowns, while also pulling in 16 receptions for 137 yards and 2 more scores.
He ended the season on fire, too: four straight games with over 100 rushing yards, including a 151-yard performance in the MAC title game and 104 yards in the Cure Bowl. Not bad for a guy who barely saw the field at Northwestern.
So what’s the problem?
The Lions Backfield is Stacked
In a word: competition.
According to John Maakaron of SI.com, Tyus is likely on the outside of Detroit’s final 53-man roster. With Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery locked in as the 1-2 punch, and Craig Reynolds and Sione Vaki already established as depth and special teams contributors, Tyus may be out of runway.
That said, he’s a prime candidate for the practice squad — and Detroit has shown a willingness to develop players who start there.
Vaki Rising, Tyus Waiting
If Tyus does miss out, it’s likely because of Sione Vaki’s growing role. Originally scouted as a safety, Vaki switched to running back and made enough of an impression to earn high praise this spring.
“I’m very impressed by him right now,” said running backs coach Tashard Choice. “His quickness, his suddenness… The son of a gun can play.”
Vaki only had six carries and three catches last year, but he was a special teams standout and clearly has the coaching staff’s trust. For Tyus, that’s the kind of edge that’s tough to beat when you’re trying to climb the depth chart.
Don’t Count Tyus Out Yet
Still, fans who followed Tyus’ rise at Ohio aren’t giving up on him. In a league where injuries and opportunity can reshape rosters in a week, Tyus just needs a chance — and if not in Detroit, someone else may come calling.
For now, though, it looks like the Lions’ breakout UDFA might be a star-in-waiting… just not on the 53.
Keywords: Anthony Tyus III, Detroit Lions