Detroit, stand up. Lions rookie defensive back Keith Abney II went out to Arizona on Sunday and made his first career NFL start one to remember.
In the Lions’ 45-21 win over the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on Oct 11, 2026, the 21-year-old Abney — a fifth-round pick (157th overall) from the April 2026 draft, taken after his junior season at Arizona State — did more than just start. He intercepted Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett on the last play of the first half for his FIRST career NFL pick, and added 7 tackles (6 solo).
What makes it even better: Abney played cornerback at ASU, but made his first pro start at safety alongside veteran Chuck Clark, after only about 10 days of practicing the position. Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard already praised the rookie’s work ethic and football IQ earlier this season, calling him one of the smartest rookies he’d been around. The Lions radio network named Abney player of the game.
He’s doing it with a chip on his shoulder, too. Sliding to the fifth round still fuels him: “157, that’s been on my mind since I got drafted.” He’s a proud Lion, and Detroit’s got a good one on the rise.
Read the full story: azcentral.com
Tap in. — LORDZ
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