Detroit Lions Bolster Cornerback Depth With Addition Of Nick Whiteside
Lions Add Former Washington Commanders Corner In Place Of Stantley Thomas-Oliver
The Detroit Lions are leaving no stone unturned as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season. In a move aimed at adding depth and competition to their cornerback room, the Lions have signed former Washington Commanders cornerback and UFL standout Nick Whiteside.
The 25-year-old Whiteside, a product of Saginaw Valley State University, was present at practice on Monday, sporting the No. 38 jersey, signaling the official start of his tenure in the Motor City. This signing comes after the release of Stantley Thomas-Oliver
From Avondale to the NFL: Whiteside's Journey
Whiteside's path to the NFL is a testament to his perseverance and adaptability. A graduate of Avondale High School, he initially entered college as a wide receiver prospect. However, he transitioned to cornerback at Saginaw Valley State in 2018, a move that would ultimately shape his football career.
Over four seasons with the Cardinals, Whiteside established himself as a defensive force, amassing an impressive stat line of 131 tackles, 26 pass breakups, and 12 interceptions across 43 games. His stellar performance earned him Division II All-American honors in both 2021 and 2022, solidifying his status as one of the top defensive backs in Division II football. He was also named the GLIAC Defensive Back of the Year in 2021, further highlighting his dominance.
Overcoming Adversity: Injuries and Resilience
Whiteside's college career wasn't without its challenges. He suffered a torn Achilles tendon at the end of the 2021 season. However, Whiteside displayed remarkable resilience, working tirelessly to recover and return to the field. He managed to play 10 games during the 2022 season, recording 30 tackles and two interceptions, proving his determination to overcome adversity. Unfortunately, his season was cut short once again when he broke his foot in the final game of the year. Despite these setbacks, Whiteside's talent and potential were evident, attracting the attention of NFL scouts.
NFL Beginnings: Washington Commanders
Following his collegiate career, Whiteside entered the 2023 NFL Draft but went undrafted. Undeterred, he signed with the Washington Commanders in May 2023, marking his first opportunity to compete at the NFL level. While he spent the majority of the season on the Commanders' practice squad, he was elevated to the active roster for the final two weeks of the season.
During this brief stint, Whiteside logged 28 snaps across defense and special teams, gaining valuable experience and showcasing his potential to contribute at the NFL level. Washington released him in late August 2024, opening the door for his next opportunity.
Rewind - Whiteside Heads To The UFL: St. Louis Battlehawks
After his release from the Commanders, Whiteside continued to pursue football. In December 2024, he signed with the St. Louis Battlehawks. The move proved to be a significant step in his career. In the 2025 UFL season, Whiteside appeared in 11 games for the Battlehawks, playing a key role in their league-leading 8-2 campaign.
He recorded 20 tackles, four pass breakups, and one fumble recovery, demonstrating his versatility and ability to make an impact on the field. His performance in the UFL solidified his status as a player with the potential to contribute at the NFL level, ultimately leading to his signing with the Detroit Lions.
What Whiteside Brings to the Lions
The Detroit Lions are adding a player with a proven track record of success at multiple levels. Whiteside's two-time Division II All-American honors and his solid performance in the UFL demonstrate his ability to compete and excel. His 12 interceptions in 43 college games highlight his ball-hawking skills and his knack for making game-changing plays.
While he is still relatively inexperienced at the NFL level, his time with the Commanders provided him with valuable exposure to the league. Whiteside's addition to the Lions' roster provides valuable depth at the cornerback position. He will have the opportunity to compete for a role on the team and contribute on both defense and special teams.
Rock’s Final Take
Whiteside’s journey from a small town in Michigan to the NFL is an inspiring story of perseverance and dedication. A player with a compelling backstory of overcoming injuries and excelling at multiple levels, the Dan Campbell & Brad Holmes way. Whiteside brings a combination of talent, resilience, and determination to the Lions' roster.
While he faces a competitive environment in the cornerback room, his UFL success and collegiate accolades suggest he has the potential to make an impact. This signing reflects the Lions' commitment to exploring all avenues for improvement and fostering a competitive environment within the team.
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