SHANE SHOEMAKER
Writer
After years of falling short of making a team’s 53-man roster, Jacob Saylors finally made his NFL debut with the Detroit Lions in their Week 1 game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday.
The former Marion County and ETSU running back played primarily on special teams, logging four kickoff returns for 92 yards. He averaged 23 yards per return, with a long of 25 yards. Detroit fell 27-13 at Green Bay.
Saylors was signed Saturday by the Lions after running back Sione Vaki was ruled out against the Packers.
During the preseason, Saylors recorded 33 carries for 112 yards, seven receptions for 52 yards and 104 return yards with no scores. He was signed to Detroit’s practice squad after being among the team’s final cuts.
Undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, Saylors worked out with the Cincinnati Bengals and Atlanta Falcons but was waived by both teams.
Over the past two years, the former Warriors star spent time with the St. Louis Battlehawks, compiling 960 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, earning All-UFL honors twice. After an impressive first season, he earned opportunities with the Cleveland Browns and New York Giants, though he was cut again.
Saylors finished his Marion County career with more than 4,100 yards and 74 touchdowns. His senior season was particularly notable, rushing for 1,795 yards on 126 carries with 36 touchdowns. He played a crucial role in guiding the Warriors to three consecutive Class 2A state championship games and was a three-time all-state selection.
Saylors now joins a prestigious list of local players who have reached the NFL, including Eric Westmoreland, Eddie Moore, Pumpy Tudors, Eddie Brown and Billy Baker.