SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JANUARY 02: A general view of a Detroit Lions helmet before a game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on January 02, 2022 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
The Detroit Lions have now signed their first 2023 draft pick, fifth-round offensive tackle Colby Sorsdal.
Every year, there’s a first one to sign for every team and financial slot values have all but eliminated first-round holdouts for NFL draft picks. The Detroit Lions have comes to terms with their first player from their 2023 draft class, with Aaron Wilson of KPRC in Houston reporting they have signed fifth-round offensive tackle Colby Sorsdal.
Sorsdal was not widely-known draft prospect coming out of William & Mary in the FCS. But he started a robust 46 games over the course of his career there, and those who more closely study or coach offensive line play knew who he was and lauded him. His answer to why he did not transfer for his final year of eligibility clearly sold the Lions on drafting him.
I wanted to help build a legacy,” What I told them was, ‘I wanted to finish the job,’” Sorsdal recalled. “I’ve always had the sense of loyalty that, ‘Hey, these guys gave me a chance. They gave me a scholarship. I owe it to them.’”
Per Wilson, Sorsdal’s slotted rookie deal is four years, $4.16 million with a $320,084 signing bonus. He will earn $830,021 this year.
Colby Sorsdal could make a real push for spot on the Detroit Lions’ 53-man roster
Sorsdal seems likely to have to kick inside to guard to have a long-term future in the NFL. That said, he should have a legit chance to earn a roster spot for the Lions right away as a rookie–as a swing tackle or a versatile depth piece as he possibly learns a new position under the tutelage of offensive line coach Hank Fraley. If it comes to that and he doesn’t make the final 53, they’ll surely be hoping to get him back on the practice squad.