TeSlaa Set for NFL Debut at Lambeau
Detroit Lions rookie wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa is gearing up for his highly anticipated NFL debut, set against the historic backdrop of Lambeau Field. The 23-year-old has made significant strides since arriving at the Lions’ Allen Park Performance Center, where he immersed himself in learning from both coaches and seasoned veterans, including former Detroit wideout Tim Patrick.
TeSlaa’s journey through training camp has not only solidified his place in the roster but also fortified his understanding of the Lions’ offensive scheme. Working closely with head coach Dan Campbell and offensive coordinator Scottie Montgomery, TeSlaa has honed his skills while observing established players like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Kalif Raymond, and Jameson Williams.
A Dream Come True
When asked about his excitement for the upcoming game, TeSlaa expressed pure enthusiasm. “Man, I can’t wait. It’s been a dream of mine, obviously, my entire life. Especially, you know, to play in Lambeau. The environment there is just unbelievable,” he said. For TeSlaa, this debut represents not just a personal milestone but the fulfillment of a lifelong aspiration.
Reflecting on his training camp experience, he noted it was a pivotal time for personal growth. “It was really just a time of growth for me to figure out who I am as a receiver and how I fit into this offense,” TeSlaa explained. He emphasized the importance of identifying his role within the team, contributing both on offense and special teams.
Embracing Opportunities
With the Lions looking to leverage his talents early in his career, TeSlaa is prepared to seize any opportunity that comes his way. “When the opportunity comes for me to go out on the field and make a play, I’m just going to make sure I do all my preparation work, so I’m ready to get out there,” he shared. His focus is not just on making plays but on fulfilling his responsibilities effectively.
During training camp, TeSlaa faced off against formidable defensive backs, including Terrion Arnold and D.J. Reed. “Even during training camp, when we did one-on-ones, I was working against the ones. Obviously, I got some reps with the first team as well,” he mentioned. This experience has allowed him to challenge himself and refine his skills against top-tier competition.
Learning from the Best
TeSlaa recognizes the value of learning from the veterans around him. “The biggest thing for me is always just watching the guys ahead of me. How they work and just learning from them,” he said. He actively engages in film study, analyzing defensive backs and their tendencies to better prepare for his upcoming challenges.
As the kickoff approaches, TeSlaa maintains a specific pregame routine to get him in the right mindset. “I play some music and drink some caffeine,” he shared, revealing his affinity for classic rock and contemporary Christian artist Brandon Lake. This blend sets the tone for his performance.
Jared Goff’s Leadership
TeSlaa’s interactions with veteran quarterback Jared Goff have left a lasting impression. “He has command of the huddle and is extremely knowledgeable,” TeSlaa noted. He admires Goff’s ability to read defenses and make quick decisions, qualities that are essential for a successful quarterback. “I think that’s what you want as a quarterback—someone who knows everything about not only the offense but the defense and can be a great leader for us,” he added.
With his debut looming, TeSlaa is ready to embrace the atmosphere at Lambeau Field, channeling his excitement into a performance that could set the tone for his promising career with the Lions. As he prepares to take the field alongside Goff and the rest of the team, TeSlaa is poised to make a memorable impact in the NFL.
