The Detroit Lions have made a savvy offseason move by signing former University of Tennessee running back Jabari Small ahead of training camp. The 23-year-old joins Detroit as part of a trio of recent signings, including two cornerbacks, aimed at bolstering roster depth before the 2025 season kicks off.
Small had a productive collegiate career with the Volunteers, rushing for 2,122 yards and 24 touchdowns over four seasons. At 5-foot-9 and 198 pounds, he’s a compact and physical runner known for his vision, balance, and nose for the end zone. His best season came in 2022 when he tallied 734 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. Small also contributed in the passing game with 32 receptions for 247 yards and two scores throughout his college tenure.
After going undrafted in 2024, Small signed with the Tennessee Titans and spent the year on their practice squad. Although he signed a futures contract with the Titans in January 2025, he was waived in May, making him available for Detroit. Now with the Lions, Small gets a fresh opportunity to prove his value at the professional level.
He enters a backfield already led by Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, with Craig Reynolds, Sione Vaki, and Kye Robichaux also in the mix. While a spot on the 53-man roster may be tough to crack, Small could make a strong impression through preseason performances and contributions on special teams.
One intriguing angle is Small’s previous chemistry with Lions backup quarterback Hendon Hooker, who also played at Tennessee. Their familiarity could provide both players with added comfort and rhythm in Detroit’s offensive schemes. It’s a small advantage, but one that could help elevate Small’s chances of sticking around beyond camp.
Despite concerns over occasional hesitation and inconsistency in finding lanes during college, analysts point to his toughness and versatility as traits that fit well with Detroit’s culture. If he can improve his decisiveness and carve out a niche role, Small could become a valuable depth piece in a long NFL season.
In short, the signing of Jabari Small is a low-risk, high-upside move for the Lions — and one worth watching as training camp unfolds.
