Undrafted doesn’t mean overlooked. The Lions are taking calculated swings on hidden offensive talent — and history says at least one of these names could turn into Detroit’s next surprise contributor.
With the NFL Draft officially complete, the Detroit Lions quickly turned their attention to the next phase of roster building: signing undrafted free agents. This is often where teams find hidden depth pieces and occasional long-term contributors. Detroit has made a habit in recent years of developing overlooked talent, and this year’s offensive UDFA group brings a mix of experience, production and upside.
Here’s a closer look at the offensive players the Lions have signed so far — with added context and scouting insight.
QB Luke Altmyer, Illinois
Altmyer arrives in Detroit after a five-year college career that began at Ole Miss Rebels before he transferred to Illinois Fighting Illini, where he became a steady presence under center. Over his career, Altmyer completed 63.7% of his passes for 7,924 yards, throwing 60 touchdowns to 24 interceptions while posting a 142.4 passer rating.
In 2025, Altmyer earned a 78.6 overall PFF grade, ranking 94th among 302 qualified quarterbacks. His passing grade of 75.6 placed him 92nd at the position. Across 383 dropbacks, he threw for 2,798 yards with 21 touchdowns and just five interceptions. He recorded 11 big-time throws but also 13 turnover-worthy plays, highlighting some inconsistency in decision-making.
Altmyer operated with an average depth of target of 9.3 yards and an average time to throw of 2.82 seconds, suggesting he is comfortable working intermediate concepts while not holding onto the ball excessively. He also added value as a runner, totaling 133 scramble yards and four rushing touchdowns.
For Detroit, Altmyer projects as a developmental quarterback who could compete for a practice squad role. His experience and efficiency give him a chance to stick, especially in a system that values smart decision-making and timing.
TE Miles Kitselman, Tennessee
Tight end was a position many expected Detroit to address in the draft, particularly with Sam LaPorta entering the later stages of his rookie contract and coming off back surgery. Instead, the Lions opted to sign Miles Kitselman as a UDFA, adding depth without using draft capital.
Kitselman began his career at Alabama Crimson Tide before transferring to Tennessee Volunteers, where he carved out a role in the passing game. In 2025, he posted a 64.4 overall PFF grade, ranking 83rd among 199 tight ends. His receiving grade of 65.4 ranked 94th.
He finished the season with 26 receptions on 41 targets for 261 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 10.0 yards per catch. Kitselman generated 139 yards after the catch, showing some ability to create in space, though five drops point to inconsistency with his hands. His average depth of target (6.0 yards) reflects a role primarily underneath and over the middle.
Over his career, Kitselman appeared in 43 games and totaled 552 receiving yards with six touchdown catches, along with a rushing touchdown. While he may not be a high-end athlete, his versatility and experience in SEC offenses could help him compete for a depth role or practice squad spot.
G Melvin Priestley, Illinois
One of the more intriguing additions is offensive guard Melvin Priestley, another product of Illinois. Detroit has clearly shown confidence in the Illini program, pairing Priestley with Altmyer as familiar teammates transitioning to the NFL together.
Priestley brings size, physicality and positional versatility to the offensive line. At Illinois, he developed a reputation as a powerful interior blocker who thrives in the run game. His strength at the point of attack allows him to generate movement, making him a natural fit for a Lions offensive identity that emphasizes physicality in the trenches.
In pass protection, Priestley showed steady improvement throughout his college career. While not an elite athlete, he uses solid technique, good hand placement and awareness to anchor against interior rushers. His ability to recognize stunts and blitzes stands out on film, which is critical for earning trust at the next level.
Priestley also benefited from significant playing experience in a pro-style system, which should ease his transition into Detroit’s scheme. He has taken reps at multiple interior spots, giving him added value as a potential depth piece. That versatility could be key as he competes for a roster or practice squad spot.
The Lions’ offensive line already features promising young talent, including Tate Ratledge, who looks like a long-term answer at right guard, and Christian Mahogany on the left side. Priestley will need to carve out his role behind that group, but Detroit has consistently developed linemen under its current regime.
Final Thoughts
While undrafted free agents rarely generate the same buzz as draft picks, they are a critical part of roster construction. The Lions have prioritized experience, toughness and scheme fit with this group. Altmyer offers quarterback depth, Kitselman provides tight end insurance, and Priestley adds needed competition along the interior offensive line.
As offseason workouts and training camp approach, these players will have an opportunity to prove they belong — and if Detroit’s recent track record is any indication, at least one of them could turn into a valuable contributor down the line.