As the Detroit Lions approach the start of the regular season, roster decisions loom large, particularly regarding their wide receiver corps. With injuries and inconsistent performances from current players, the Lions could be looking outside their organization for reinforcements.
Who Will Step Up For Detroit Lions?
Early-season struggles from receivers like Donovan Peoples-Jones and Daurice Fountain have heightened concerns. Meanwhile, Antoine Green’s injury further complicates the Lions’ depth issues at outside receiver. The only bright spot has been undrafted rookie Isaiah Williams, who is now being considered for playing time outside, despite primarily being a slot receiver.
31 Wide Receiver Options for the Lions
Looking ahead to the upcoming cuts across the league, the Detroit Lions are exploring options to bolster their receiving options. The team has a history of trading for receivers, notably sending a fifth-round pick in 2021 for Trinity Benson, though that move did not pan out favorably.
In a recent article from Pride of Detroit, John Whitcar listed one wide receiver from each of the other 31 NFL teams that the Lions could acquire. Please click here to see all of the receivers Whiticar suggested. But before you do that, here are my four favorite options from the list.
Houston Texans: John Metchie III
The Texans are a promising young team, but their crowded receiver room may force them to cut some talent. Metchie, standing at 5-foot-11 and 186 pounds, isn’t the typical outside receiver but excels with his route running and speed. He could be a top waiver wire target if released—Detroit might want to offer a draft pick to secure him before that happens.
Los Angeles Chargers: Cornelius Johnson
The Chargers selected three receivers in the 2024 NFL Draft, but Johnson, the final pick, seems unlikely to make the roster. The Michigan Wolverine has potential, boasting size, quickness, hands, and blocking ability, but he’s still more of a project than a polished player. He needs time to develop and bring it all together.
San Francisco 49ers: Ronnie Bell
The 49ers may cut either Bell or Danny Gray, but Bell is the more intriguing prospect. Despite struggling in preseason with drops and catching just four of 10 targets, Bell had a standout preseason last year, including a 114-yard game. While he’s reportedly doing well in practice, it may not be enough to avoid waivers.
Tennessee Titans: Treylon Burks
The Titans’ available receivers don’t offer much appeal, but Burks stands out as a potential trade target. The former first-round pick has been a disappointment, dealing with injuries and inconsistency in his first two seasons. If Detroit can make an enticing offer, a fresh start with the Lions might be what Burks needs to revive his career, though the cost of such a move is uncertain.
