We’re back with our series of Detroit Lions free agent profiles for the 2023–2024 campaign. I’m here to talk about offensive lineman Halapoulivaati Vaitai this time. Vaitai inked a five-year, $45 million contract with the Lions back in 2020. Vaitai has struggled with injuries the last few seasons, so it could be time for Detroit to look elsewhere for offensive line depth.
Let’s examine the argument for Vaitai’s release in more detail.
Due to a back injury he sustained in the preseason finale against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Vaitai was sidelined for the entire 2022 campaign. Vaitai’s contract was adjusted by the Lions during the offseason, with a portion of his compensation converted to a signing bonus, the fifth year of the agreement voided, and a pay reduction required of him. Vaitai thought about retiring from the game after suffering a back injury in 2022.
“I wanted to experience what it would be like to be retired, so I used that time to spend with my family and kids. However, I also have a grudge, therefore I’m going to make a great comeback,” Vaitai declared in May 2023.
Vaitai was anticipated to remain a right guard starter.
Vaitai faced off against offensive lineman Graham Glasgow for the position of right guard during training camp. Glasgow would play center while center Frank Ragnow needed a break, which would allow Vaitai to play right guard more often. In the end, Vaitai emerged victorious over Glasgow for the starting position, making his debut in Week 1.
Vaitai participated in two games prior to sustaining a foot ailment that would prevent him from playing in consecutive games. Vaitai played on special teams after making a comeback in Week 5 and received another start in Week 7. Vaitai was doubtful in Week 8 due to a back ailment he sustained after the game. That would be his season, but he would play special teams once more. In Week 9, he was declared ineligible for Week 10, and the Lions
