Just like starting Quarterback Jared Goff, Nate Sudfeld was born and raised in California. Nate has 2 brothers and 2 sisters who were all collegiate athletes. Both brothers also played football, notably Zach Sudfeld. Zach played Tight End for the New England Patriots and New York Jets.

Nate Sudfeld History

In his four years at Indiana, Nate Sudfeld played in 37 games. He passed for a total of 7,879 yards and threw 61 touchdowns.  His junior year was cut short after a shoulder injury that required surgery.  He came back his senior year and started in all 12 games. Sudfeld was drafted 187th overall in the sixth round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins.

Sudfeld completed 19 of 23 passes in his NFL Debut to set the new record for completion percentage by a quarterback in their first NFL game (83%). Nate Sudfeld in his career has played in 4 NFL games, where he’s completed 25 of 37 passes for 188 yards and one touchdown.

Detroit Lions Back-Up QB Battle

The Lions backup quarterback position was originally a battle between Tim Boyle and David Blough.  Both quarterbacks went head-to-head all preseason long, ending with a shot to secure their roster spot in Pittsburgh.  

Dan Campbell spoke on what he was looking for going into the final preseason game saying, “I think what we need is we need somebody to really take the reigns here. I mean, somebody needs to step up out of the two and I thought they both progressed last week. Now, somebody needs to step up and run this offense, play efficient, play smart, take care of the football, get us the first downs, and when we get down to the redzone score touchdowns for us.”  He also added, that “there’s always a possibility” of bringing in outside reinforcements. 

After Sunday’s performance, both Blough and Boyle’s play left Dan Campbell with only one comment on the backup quarterback situation: “clarity.”

Early Wednesday morning, the Detroit Lions officially announced the signing of Nate Sudfeld.

Maddy Miller – Lions Beat Reporter

Photo Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports