Less than a month with his hometown team, Auburn Hills native Nick Whiteside will be looking for a new professional home.
The Detroit News’ Richard Silva reports the Lions are waiving the 25-year-old cornerback who shone during his time at Saginaw Valley State University.
Showcasing physicality and grit throughout training camp, the Lions coaching staff took a liking to Whiteside, who could be a viable candidate for the team to sign to the practice squad if he clears waivers.
“I like Whiteside, man,” Lions coach Campbell said several weeks ago. “Just the fact that he comes in, he competes. He’s a pro. He jumps into every drill, even if he’s not supposed to be in there. He wants it. He’s a sponge, and he likes to compete.
“There’s something to work with here. (Lions defensive backs coach Deshea Townsend) Shea’s doing a great job with him, too. Yeah, fired up.”
Following Saturday’s preseason loss to the Houston Texans, Pro Football Focus gave Whiteside a 27.5 grade, ranking as their lowest-rated defender with at least 10 snaps. Whiteside played 51 snaps in that game.
Entering the NFL as an undrafted rookie after he wasn’t selected during the 2023 NFL draft, Whiteside signed with the Washington Commanders, where he played his first two NFL seasons.
From there, he went on to play one lone season with the UFL’s St. Louis Battlehawks before returning to the NFL and signing with the Lions earlier this July.
Mostly known for his collegiate days at Saginaw Valley State, Whiteside is a two-time First-team All-GLIAC selection and former GLIAC Defensive Player of the Year. He also earned first and second-team DII All-American honors.
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