Shane Zylstra

Shane Zylstra's Biography

Born on November 16, 1996, Shane Zylstra now proudly stands as an American professional football tight end for the reputable Detroit Lions, a team that is part of the prominent National Football League (NFL). His journey from an enthusiastic college football player to a respected professional athlete is a testament to his unwavering dedication, perseverance, and undying passion for the game of football.

Zylstra began his football journey at Minnesota State where he was a part of the Minnesota State Mavericks for five remarkable seasons. This included a redshirt season during his initial freshman year, where he honed his skills without losing a year of eligibility. During this time, Zylstra improved his football prowess and began laying the groundwork for his exceptional career.

In what would eventually crown his college career, Zylstra broke records at Minnesota State and etched his name in the annals of the university’s sports history. By the end of his collegiate phase, Zylstra had established Minnesota State school records in three different categories: 227 catches, a staggering 4,297 receiving yards, and a remarkable 54 touchdown receptions. These numbers attest not only to his athletic capabilities but also to his consistency and the steadfast nature of his performance on the field.

Transitioning his game to the professional level, Zylstra was signed by the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent on May 7, 2021. Adjusting to the team’s strategy and needs, he was shifted from wide receiver, his original position, to tight end. However, on August 31, 2021, during the final roster cuts, Zylstra was waived by the Vikings.

Never one to be dissuaded, he was signed to the practice squad of the Detroit Lions the very next day on September 1, 2021. He proved his worth for the Lions, eventually getting elevated to the main squad on October 10, 2021, for the team’s week 5 game against the Vikings, his former team. Further confirmation of his value to the Lions came when he signed a reserve/future contract with them on January 10, 2022.

In an unexpected turn of events, however, Zylstra was waived by the Lions on October 1, 2022. This twist was short-lived as he was quickly re-signed to the practice squad. He was activated, along with his brother Brandon Zylstra, for Week 9 against the Green Bay Packers. This particular game held special significance for Shane, as he finished with his first professional touchdown – a thrilling one-yard touchdown reception from star quarterback Jared Goff. In recognition of this achievement, he was signed back onto the active roster on November 13. Adding another feather to his cap, Zylstra caught three touchdown passes during a game against the Carolina Panthers on December 24.

Unfortunately, adversity struck on August 1, 2023, when Zylstra was waived/injured by the Lions following a knee injury he sustained in training camp. However, proving his mettle yet again, he bounced back to be waived by the Lions on August 27, 2024, before being re-signed to the practice squad.

Throughout his career, Zylstra has shared an undeniable bond with football, playing alongside his older brother, Brandon Zylstra, also a wide receiver. This familial connection adds another layer of depth to Shane’s impressive football career, proving that for the Zylstra boys, football is more than just a game; it is a shared passion.

Shane Zylstra’s journey from Minnesota State to the Detroit Lions tells a vivid story of resilience, determination, and unwavering tenacity. His ability to make an impact wherever he plays, compounded by his never-say-die attitude, clearly showcases that Shane Zylstra is an exceptional football player, an inspiring athlete, and, above all, a true lover of the sport.