The Detroit Lions have re-signed former Washington Huskies safety Ezekiel “Zeke” Turner to a one-year deal worth $1.25 million after he proved his worth to coach Dan Campbell’s team after signing with them midway through the season.
During his time with the Huskies from 2014 to 2017, under head coach Chris Petersen, he contributed to a program on the rise, including the 2016 squad that reached the College Football Playoff. Turner appeared in 38 games, amassing 71 tackles, 2 interceptions, and a reputation for physicality.
His excellence on special teams shined on Montlake, where he was named Washington’s special teams Player of the Week four times and was co-special teams MVP during the 2016 team. One of his most memorable moments came in the 2017 Apple Cup, where he hauled in an interception and returned it for 41 yards just before halftime in a 41-14 over Washington State.
After going undrafted in 2018, Turner carved out a role with the Arizona Cardinals after they shifted him from being a defensive back for Washington to a linebacker. He played in all 16 games that season, was third in the league for special teams tackles, and was named to the Pro Football Writers Association’s All-Rookie team.
His familiarity with Detroit’s system and success on special teams coordinator Dave Fipp’s squad makes this a low-risk, high-reward move. Projected as a depth linebacker behind Derrick Barnes and a special teams gunner, Turner and Detroit are looking to rebound from a 2024 playoff loss to the Washington Commanders.
The former Husky’s experience and hustle could prove invaluable in 2025.
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