Detroit announced on Tuesday that it has signed undrafted free agent tight end Miles Kitselman, adding a new option for its roster and for Fantasy Football managers seeking late‑round value. Kitselman, who logged 26 receptions for 253 yards and two touchdowns in 2025 with Tennessee, will join the Lions’ offseason program and compete for a depth spot on the active roster or practice squad.
Fantasy owners should note that Kitselman’s contract is a standard three‑year rookie deal with minimal signing bonus, meaning he carries little cap hit and could become a cost‑effective flex play if he cracks the lineup. The move also reflects Detroit’s broader strategy of bolstering its receiving corps after a 2025 season that left the tight end group thin.
What does Kitselman’s background tell us about his upside?
Looking at his college production, Kitselman emerged as a reliable red‑zone target in Knoxville, finishing his senior year with 26 catches and two scores despite sharing snaps with multiple receivers. His size and route‑running earned him modest but consistent target share, a trait that could translate to short‑yardage situations in the NFL. The Lions hope his familiarity with spread concepts will mesh with Detroit’s multiple‑receiver sets.
Key details of the Lions’ signing
According to CBS Sports, the tight end’s contract includes a modest base salary that aligns with other undrafted signees, leaving the team flexibility under the salary cap. He will attend rookie minicamp alongside other first‑year players, where coaches will evaluate his blocking ability and route precision. If he does not make the 53‑man roster, the front office indicated he could land on the practice squad, preserving his development.
Key Developments
- Kitselman signed his rookie contract on May 13, 2026, making him one of the first undrafted free agents added by Detroit this offseason.
- He recorded 26 catches for 253 yards and two touchdowns while playing for Tennessee in the 2025 season, showcasing modest but efficient production.
- The Lions plan to give him a chance to compete for a depth role at tight end, with the practice squad as a fallback option.
- His three‑year deal carries a low signing bonus, keeping his cap hit well below the league minimum for undrafted players.
- Detroit’s current tight end depth chart lists Dan Arnold as the starter, creating an opportunity for Kitselman to earn snaps in two‑tight‑end sets.
Impact and what’s next for Fantasy Football managers
For Fantasy Football participants, Kitselman represents a low‑risk stash with upside in leagues that reward target volume. Should injuries hit the Lions’ tight end group, he could see an increase in snaps and a modest target share, turning him into a viable flex option in deeper leagues. Moreover, his practice‑squad eligibility means he can be added to waivers without occupying a roster spot, a strategic move for managers who like to hedge against late‑season injuries. The Lions’ commitment to developing undrafted talent suggests they will give Kitselman ample reps in preseason games, a period when fantasy values often surge for breakout candidates.
What college did Miles Kitselman play for before joining the Lions?
Kitselman was a senior tight end at the University of Tennessee, where he posted 26 receptions for 253 yards and two touchdowns in the 2025 season.
How does Kitselman’s contract affect the Lions’ salary cap?
The three‑year rookie deal includes a modest signing bonus and a base salary at the undrafted minimum, leaving Detroit with negligible cap impact while preserving flexibility for other acquisitions.
Can Kitselman be a viable fantasy flex option?
If injuries elevate him to a regular‑situation role, his size and red‑zone experience could translate to a handful of fantasy points per week, especially in leagues that count tight‑end targets.
