The moment Isaac TeSlaa’s name was called by the Detroit Lions in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft was nothing short of magical—especially for his family and friends, who erupted in pure, unforgettable joy. For TeSlaa, a lifelong Lions fan, the dream of one day wearing the Honolulu blue and silver came full circle in a way most young football fans can only imagine.
TeSlaa’s deep love for the Detroit Lions has been a part of his identity for as long as he can remember. During his top-30 visit to the team’s facility ahead of the draft, he made headlines by showing up wearing a well-worn Lions jersey he had owned since eighth grade—a clear symbol of his longtime loyalty. It was a full-circle moment for him to not just visit as a fan, but as a serious draft prospect.
So when the phone rang and the news broke that the Lions were selecting him in the third round, TeSlaa’s family and close friends exploded with raw emotion. The cameras caught every second of the heartwarming scene, and later that weekend, the TeSlaa family shared the incredible footage on Instagram. Watching the room burst into cheers and tears the instant they realized what was happening perfectly captured the powerful connection between TeSlaa, his family, and the team they had supported for years.
The moment turned even more emotional when the family heard the phrase, “Thank you, Mrs. Ford,” during the call—an unmistakable signal that TeSlaa’s dream was becoming a reality. The walls could barely contain the overwhelming excitement and pride filling the room.
Shortly after the announcement, TeSlaa joined Detroit media members on a Zoom call to reflect on what it meant to be drafted by his hometown team. Though still visibly emotional and trying to process the enormity of the moment, he shared his feelings candidly.
“I don’t even know if I have the words right now. I’m still trying to process it,” TeSlaa admitted. “It’s been a dream not just to make it to the NFL, but to play for the team I grew up cheering for. The Lions have been a part of my life since I was a baby. It’s an incredible feeling, and I’m so grateful for this opportunity. I’m ready to get to work, ready to get to the facility, and start putting in the work to help this team.”
Moments like these remind fans why the NFL Draft is so much more than just team-building—it’s about the dreams that come true for young athletes and the communities that support them. For Isaac TeSlaa and his family, April 2025 will be a memory cherished forever, and Lions fans can look forward to watching one of their own take the field with pride.
