Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell recently addressed a growing concern surrounding the team’s depth at wide receiver during training camp. The issue has become particularly pressing following the recent injury and subsequent waiving of rookie Antoine Green, coupled with the departure of Josh Reynolds to free agency. With the season fast approaching, the Lions are in urgent need of a reliable WR-X to solidify their receiving corps.
Dan Campbell Calls for Players to Step Up
Dan Campbell emphasized the need for someone to rise to the occasion:
“We’re waiting for somebody to step forward,” Campbell said as quoted by Pride of Detroit. “We’re waiting for any one of those guys to step forward. (Donovan Peoples-Jones) DPJ I felt like has been, since the game, much better. He’s playing faster and I notice it, we all notice it. So that’s encouraging. (Daurice) Fountain and Tre’Quan (Smith) and Kaden Davis, we’re dying for somebody to step up and say, ‘Hey man, I’m the guy. I’m the guy you can depend on. I’ll be the same consistent player every day and find a way to make the plays that come my way.’”
Kalif Raymond remains a trusted option for the Lions, but his role is somewhat limited due to his size. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson highlighted the need for a larger receiver to fill the WR-X position, indicating that a reshuffling of the lineup might be necessary if no one else steps up to claim the role.
Urgency Grows as Season Approaches
As the Lions approach the new season, the situation at wide receiver is becoming increasingly “dire,” with the team facing a pressing need for players to establish themselves as dependable contributors. Dan Campbell’s comments underscore the challenges ahead and the hope that emerging talent within the squad can rise to meet the demands of the upcoming season. The Lions will need to address these concerns quickly to ensure they have a competitive and balanced offense when the regular season begins.