Sione Vaki absent as Lions beat Commanders in preseason matchup
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 8:33 PM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026

The Detroit Lions secured a 17-13 victory over the Washington Commanders on August 22. Running back Sione Vaki was a surprise absence from the Lions lineup, dealing with back spasms. Coach Dan Campbell indicated that Vaki had previously missed time in training camp due to eye and nose injuries but had recently returned to practice. Although he aimed to play, the back issue prevented his participation, but Campbell expects him to practice this week. Additionally, wide receiver Cedrick Wilson Jr. left the game with a knee injury, raising concerns about his prognosis, while offensive lineman Michael Niese was seen on crutches after an injury.
- •Lions defeat Commanders 17-13 in preseason game.
- •Sione Vaki misses game due to back spasms.
- •Vaki recovering from previous injuries but expected back at practice.
- •Cedrick Wilson Jr. leaves game with knee injury, prognosis uncertain.
- •Michael Niese seen on crutches after leg injury during the game.
- 8:33 PMYahoo Sports — Why Sione Vaki, Lions RB, didn't play vs. Commanders
"Running back Sione Vaki was the only surprise absence for the Lions in their 17-13 preseason victory over the Commanders.
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