Former Detroit Lions running back Jermar Jefferson has been a name that many casual football fans might have forgotten over the past few seasons, but those who closely follow player development and the grind behind the NFL curtain know just how hard it is for a player like Jefferson to stay ready for an opportunity. After spending four years in Detroit, mostly operating behind the scenes and fighting for his spot, Jefferson has finally found a new home and another chance to make his mark in the league. His journey is a reminder of the resilience and mental toughness required for athletes on the fringes of NFL rosters, and it speaks to the unforgiving nature of professional football, where even talented players can get lost in the shuffle if the right break doesn’t come at the right time.
Jermar Jefferson was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Oregon State, where he had carved out a reputation as a versatile and powerful runner with solid vision and burst. At Oregon State, Jefferson displayed an ability to be a workhorse back, earning accolades for his consistency and productivity despite not being part of a powerhouse college program. His 2018 season as a freshman turned heads across the Pac-12 as he racked up over 1,300 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, quickly establishing himself as a key figure for the Beavers. His college tape was filled with examples of him breaking tackles, finding lanes, and possessing the kind of balance that NFL scouts often covet in a running back. However, despite his talent, he fell to the later rounds of the draft due to questions about his top-end speed, durability, and overall ceiling in an NFL system. But for Jefferson, simply hearing his name called was validation of the countless hours of hard work and the sacrifices he had made to reach that point.
His early time with the Lions showed promise. As a rookie in 2021, he saw limited action but made an impression when called upon, including a breakout performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 10 where he rushed for 41 yards and a touchdown on just three carries. That brief flash of potential was enough to excite Lions fans who saw him as a young back who could develop behind the established duo of D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams. Yet, as is often the case for late-round picks, the opportunities were few and far between. Injuries, roster shuffling, and the competitive nature of the running back room made it difficult for Jefferson to establish himself as a consistent contributor. Over the next few seasons, he found himself moving between the active roster and the practice squad, biding his time and putting in the work that doesn’t often make headlines but is crucial for players trying to stick around.
What makes Jefferson’s story compelling is not just the challenges he faced but the way he responded to them. Many players drafted in later rounds wash out of the league quickly, unable to adapt to the speed and demands of the NFL. But Jefferson’s determination was evident. Coaches and teammates often praised his work ethic and willingness to take on any role asked of him, whether it was running scout team reps, staying after practice to refine his footwork, or studying film to improve his understanding of defensive schemes. His commitment to his craft was never in question, and that is perhaps why, even after being waived or overlooked for playing time, he never gave up on his dream of making an impact in the league.
The running back position in the NFL is notoriously brutal, with short average career spans and a constant influx of younger, cheaper talent. For Jefferson, staying in Detroit meant competing year after year with new draft picks, free agents, and undrafted rookies hungry to prove themselves. It’s a testament to his perseverance that he managed to remain in the conversation for so long, even as the Lions’ roster evolved under head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes. The 2022 and 2023 seasons were particularly tough, as Jefferson battled injuries and found himself further down the depth chart behind emerging backs like Craig Reynolds and rookie standout Jahmyr Gibbs. Still, he kept showing up, ready to seize any opportunity.
Now, Jefferson has found a new home, and with it, a renewed sense of purpose. The specifics of his new team and role may still be developing, but what’s clear is that someone saw enough in his potential and his body of work to offer him another shot. For a player like Jefferson, this fresh start could be exactly what he needs to rejuvenate his career. Sometimes a change of scenery is all it takes for a player to finally showcase what they can do. New coaching staff, a different offensive system, and a fresh perspective can bring out untapped potential that might have been buried in the depth charts of a previous team. Jefferson’s skill set—his vision, his ability to find cutback lanes, his solid pass protection, and his willingness to grind out tough yards—makes him a valuable depth piece for any team looking for reliability and versatility in its backfield.
What makes Jefferson’s new opportunity intriguing is the experience he brings despite limited game reps. Four years in the NFL, even as a backup or practice squad player, provides a wealth of knowledge about preparation, professionalism, and mental toughness. He’s gone through the grind of training camps, film sessions, and the week-to-week intensity of an NFL season. He’s learned from veterans, competed against top-level defenses in practice, and understands what it takes to stay ready at a moment’s notice. That experience can’t be overlooked, especially for a team that might be looking for a steady hand behind a younger or injury-prone starter. Jefferson’s resilience could make him a reliable contributor, particularly in situations where ball security and smart running are paramount.
It’s also worth noting how Jefferson’s time in Detroit prepared him for this next chapter. The Lions have undergone a significant transformation in recent years, evolving from a struggling franchise to a team with playoff aspirations. Under Dan Campbell’s leadership, the culture in Detroit has shifted to one that emphasizes toughness, accountability, and relentless effort. Being part of that locker room, even in a limited role, likely instilled in Jefferson the kind of mindset that NFL teams value—one that prioritizes the team over individual accolades and embraces the grind. In many ways, Jefferson embodies the underdog mentality that Campbell has championed in Detroit, and carrying that mentality into a new environment could be a major asset.
The broader NFL landscape is also in Jefferson’s favor. With the league increasingly moving toward running back committees rather than feature backs, there is a growing need for reliable role players who can step in without missing a beat. Injuries and the physical toll on running backs make depth at the position crucial for any contending team. If Jefferson can carve out a role on special teams, contribute in short-yardage situations, or simply be a dependable backup, he has a real chance to stick and potentially earn more playing time. His ability to adapt and stay versatile will be key factors in determining how successful this new chapter will be.
Fans who have followed Jefferson’s journey will no doubt be rooting for him. Stories like his resonate because they highlight the less glamorous side of the NFL—where players have to constantly fight for their spot and where success is often measured not by headlines or stats, but by the ability to endure and stay ready. Jefferson’s path has been anything but easy, but that’s what makes his new opportunity so compelling. He’s not a first-round pick who was handed a starting job; he’s a late-round grinder who has had to claw for every rep, every carry, and every chance to prove himself.
Looking ahead, the coming months will be critical for Jefferson as he looks to solidify his place on his new team’s roster. Training camp and preseason will be his proving ground, where every snap, every block, and every carry will be under scrutiny. But if his past is any indication, Jefferson will approach this challenge with the same determination that has kept him in the league this long. His journey serves as a reminder to aspiring athletes that success isn’t always about instant stardom; sometimes, it’s about persistence, staying prepared, and believing in yourself even when the odds seem stacked against you.
Ultimately, Jermar Jefferson’s story is far from over. While the first chapter of his NFL career in Detroit may not have gone exactly as planned, this new opportunity represents a chance for him to write a fresh narrative. Whether he becomes a key contributor or simply a reliable depth piece, his journey is already a testament to perseverance, hard work, and the never-quit attitude that defines so many unsung heroes of the NFL. For Jefferson, the dream is still alive, and now, with a new home and a clean slate, he has the chance to turn years of grinding behind the scenes into the breakthrough he’s been waiting for.
