'He Was Perfect': Detroit Lions Impressed with Nate Sudfeld

The Lions coaching staff feel their backup quarterback situation is solid.

Detroit Lions backup quarterback Nate Sudfeld had an impressive showing throughout the offseason workouts. 

Entering his second season in Motown, Detroit's coaching staff have noticed the improvements made by the veteran backup quarterback. 

“He has gotten better as the spring has gone on,” quarterbacks coach Brunell told reporters. “He has made some very good throws, very good decisions with the ball. And that’s the thing I’ve been most pleased with Nate, is just with the growth even in this offseason. He’s a smart kid, he’s a hard worker, he knows our system and he’s done very well for us.”

Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson indicated the support starter Jared Goff has received from the 29-year-old backup has been invaluable. 

“I love the room right now. There’s a great camaraderie in there and I think that’s really important when you define that backup quarterback position," said Johnson. "It’s not only a guy that can go in and win games, but for the majority of the season, if all things go right, he’s there to support that starter and we have that. We have that right now, not only with Nate and Hendon and Adrian.”

The coaching staff is seeking a backup who can aid the team on the field, if needed, but also to serve as another set of eyes for Goff on the sidelines and in meeting rooms. 

“He was perfect. I talked about the preparation and being ready to go if called upon, the time that he put in. He was great leading up to our games, as far as working with Jared and watching tape together," said Brunell. "And then on gameday, he was excellent. And it’s very important for a starter to have a resource on the sidelines, in the meeting room, a backup guy that really just wants to help Jared be the best he can be.”