Former Bruins lineman Duke Clemens signs with Detroit Lions

Duke to Detroit.

After going undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, another UCLA Bruin managed to find a home in the league. Duke Clemens, the Bruins redshirt senior center, has signed with the Detroit Lions. 

Anchoring the Bruins’ offensive line, which had six games of 200 yards or more, the 6′ 4″ Clemens paved the way for UCLA’s potent running game. 

Now on the Lions, Clemens joins a Detroit offensive line led by left tackle Penei Sewell and center Frank Ragnow. Though Clemens started all his games at center in 2023, his frame offers an ability to play both guard and center. That positional versatility alone could help him find a spot on the Lions roster or the roster of another team. 

Depth is a need for all teams in the NFL. Given Clemens’ experience at UCLA and his ability to play at a high level in a productive running game, the Lions could be the perfect place for him to slot in and provide depth for.