Lions Re-Sign QB Nate Sudfeld For Another Year

The Detroit Lions declared on Wednesday evening that they have retained experienced quarterback Nate Sudfeld. Specifics of the contract were not immediately disclosed.

Sudfeld began the 2023 season as the anticipated backup quarterback until the Lions made notable changes in that position. Firstly, they selected Hendon Hooker in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, followed by signing veteran quarterback Teddy Bridgewater to serve as backup and mentor.

Sudfeld entered training camp with indications pointing towards him being the third-string quarterback (with Hooker placed on the Non-Football Injury list). The uncertainty revolved around whether he would secure a spot on the 53-man roster or spend the season on the practice squad. Unfortunately, neither scenario unfolded, as Sudfeld suffered an ACL tear in the preseason finale, leading to his placement on injured reserve, causing him to miss the entire season.

With Jared Goff returning and Hooker set to assume the backup role, Sudfeld’s comeback carries significance as a seasoned veteran providing valuable insight. Goff has previously acknowledged Sudfeld’s importance in this capacity.

“Nate’s been fantastic,” Goff stated in August last year. “His support on the sidelines has been invaluable. He’s been incredibly helpful, and I know he’s prepared to step in if needed.”

Since his entry into the league in 2016 as a sixth-round pick for the Washington Commanders, Sudfeld has appeared in just six games. Across those games, he has completed 25-of-37 passes for 188 yards, tallying one touchdown and one interception.

An essential consideration regarding Sudfeld is the newly approved emergency quarterback rule established during the owners’ meetings this week. According to the new rule, teams can promote an emergency quarterback from the practice squad an unlimited number of times throughout the season. Sudfeld could potentially fulfill this role.