Arena Football League Star Begs for Chance Outside Detroit Lions Facility

Freddie McGee III arrives with sign highlighting his stats in hopes of earning an NFL contract.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:37pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the blurred, energetic figure of a football player holding a sign, representing the determination and risk-taking of an undrafted player seeking an NFL chance.A former Arena Football League star's bold public plea for an NFL opportunity reflects the lengths undrafted players must go to achieve their lifelong dreams.Today in Detroit

Freddie McGee III, a former Eastern Michigan defensive back who last played college football in 2021, stood outside the Detroit Lions' facility on Monday with a sign highlighting his stats from his time in the Arena Football League. McGee, who does not have an agent, is hoping to earn an NFL contract through this unorthodox approach.

Why it matters

Players often go to great lengths to get noticed by NFL teams, and McGee's public display demonstrates his determination to fulfill his lifelong dream of playing in the league. While his college stats were modest, his Arena Football League performance suggests he may have developed into a talented defensive back, giving him a chance to prove himself at the next level.

The details

McGee, who is 25 years old, was a standout defensive back in the Arena Football League, recording impressive stats such as 12 interceptions and 28 passes defended. He arrived at the Lions' facility around 8:45 a.m. on Monday with a sign showcasing these numbers, hoping to gain the attention of the team's coaching staff and front office. Despite not having an agent, McGee says he is in the best shape of his life and feels that 'God put it on my heart' to pursue this opportunity.

  • McGee arrived at the Detroit Lions' facility on Monday, April 13, 2026.

The players

Freddie McGee III

A 25-year-old former Eastern Michigan defensive back who last played college football in 2021 and is now seeking an NFL contract after a successful career in the Arena Football League.

Detroit Lions

The NFL team based in Detroit, Michigan, where McGee arrived with a sign in hopes of earning a tryout or contract.

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What they’re saying

“God put it on my heart. I've had this goal since I was 5.”

— Freddie McGee III, Arena Football League Player

What’s next

The Detroit Lions will likely review McGee's film and consider whether to bring him in for a tryout or offer him a contract, given his impressive Arena Football League stats and his determination to earn an NFL opportunity.

The takeaway

McGee's unorthodox approach to seeking an NFL contract, by standing outside the Lions' facility with a sign highlighting his accomplishments, demonstrates the lengths some players will go to in order to fulfill their professional football dreams. While his college career was unremarkable, his Arena Football League success suggests he may have the potential to contribute at the NFL level if given a chance.