Utah Two-Way Star Sione Vaki Seems to Have Chosen His NFL Position

Utah two-way star confirmed he was leading one way regarding the position he would like to play in the NFL

Despite breaking out as a two-way star, former Ute Sione Vaki made things clear in regards to what position he wants to play in the NFL.

In an interview with reporters at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, Vaki didn’t mince his words, stating his desire to focus on playing safety.

Smiling when asked his positional preference in the NFL, Vaki answered, “Yeah… I’d definitely like to stay on the defensive side of the ball.”

I’ve got some bad news for NFL Fantasy Football enthusiasts, ultra-versatile Two-Way Utah S/RB Sione Vaki said he prefers to play on the defensive side of the ball. 👀 pic.twitter.com/ynvd3vOD7H

— Eric Froton (@CFFroton) February 29, 2024

The 6-foot sophomore exploded onto the CFB scene as one of the nation’s best two-way players in 2023. 

At safety, Vaki tallied 51 tackles, eight-and-a-half TFLs, two sacks, and one interception in 12 games. As a running back during the latter half of the Utes’ season, he added an extremely efficient 520 combined offensive yards and five touchdowns.

Despite two-way success in college, it is much harder to play both sides in the NFL. While not impossible, it was clear Vaki would have to choose one side to focus on during his NFL career. It seems like that choice has been made.

Feb 29, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Utah defensive back Sione Vaki (DB65) talks to the media during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports / Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Vaki has always been a safety first, and NFL scouts seem to agree. Currently, the former Ute is ranked as one of the top safeties in the upcoming NFL draft. In January, PFF’s Trevor Sikkema pinned Vaki as his No. 5 safety in the class. Other analysts have him in the 8-12 range at his preferred position.

Nonetheless, Vaki will get the perfect opportunity to showcase his explosiveness at this year’s Combine field practice. Despite shying away from running back, the tale of the tape still exists, and Vaki’s field work is sure to impress scouts with his unique skill set that combines both quickness and strength.

Fans can tune into NFL Combine coverage at 3 pm EST on Friday, Mar. 1st, to see Vaki’s workout.