Former Nebraska Alum signs with Detroit Lions

Another Nebraska alum is getting another shot in the NFL.

Defensive back DiCaprio Bootle is continuing his professional journey, this time with the Detroit Lions. Bootle, who played four seasons at Nebraska, has a real shot to crack the Lions' roster heading into training camp.

The Lions announced Bottles' signing as part of a series of recent free agency signings. The team also added defensive back Tyson Russell and running back Jabari Small.

Bootle has bounced around the league since going undrafted in 2021. He spent time with the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs in 2021, playing in seven games over two seasons. He spent the 2023 season with the Carolina Panthers. Most recently, he suited up for the Los Angeles Chargers, where he recorded six tackles in six games with the Bolts.

Bootle had played for the Nebraska football team from 2016 to 2020, concluding his collegiate career during the shortened 2020 season. Throughout his time with the Huskers, he was named All-Big Ten in 2018 and Honorable-Mention All-Big Ten in both 2019 and 2020.

While a roster spot isn't guaranteed, he has a shot to join a team that will have some Super Bowl aspirations in February. Last season, they finished 15-2 before being eliminated in the NFC Divisional round against the surging Washington Commanders.

The Lions are in prime position to compete for a Super Bowl, and they'll be likely adding a player who knows what that success taste like.