Detroit Lions Re-Sign QB Nate Sudfeld

Lions have their backup quarterback for the 2023 season.

The Detroit Lions announced that backup quarterback Nate Sudfeld is returning for the 2023 season. 

The terms of his new contract terms were not disclosed.

After joining the team following the preseason last year, Sudfeld returns to the quarterbacks room to back up Jared Goff. 

Sudfeld was a sixth-round pick (No. 187th overall) by the Washington Commanders in the 2016 NFL Draft. 

According to the team's website, "Sudfeld has appeared in six-career games and has completed 25-of-37 passes (67.6%) for 188 yards, one touchdown and one interception for a 77.3 passer rating." 

Prior to playing in Detroit, Sudfeld had played for the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers.

Detroit general manager Brad Holmes indicated prior to the start of free agency that the team would make a concerted effort not to wait until the last minute before deciding upon a backup quarterback. 

After several veterans signed elsewhere, Detroit's front office likely took into consideration Goff's comfort level with having Sudfeld around. 

"I’ve had these conversations with Jared, look, we love Jared," said Holmes. "He’s our starter, he’s our guy going forward, but we don’t have anything behind him. I thought Nate Sudfeld did a nice job when we got him, but he’s a UFA (unrestricted free agent), as well."

With Sudfeld back in the fold, the team could target a developmental quarterback in the later rounds of the draft. 

While the organization would likely covet Florida Gators quarterback Anthony Richardson, there is growing sentiment the top quarterbacks will be off the board by the time the Lions pick at No. 6. 

Detroit could look to Jake Haener, Clayton Tune or Max Duggan in the later rounds of the draft, if there is a run on quarterbacks early. 

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