The Lions’ Most Pressing Need: Wide Receiver
By Tho Bishop
Following last weekend’s draft, Lions fans have voiced concern that the team didn’t do enough to address positions like defensive line and running back. The concerns are understandable. Last year, the Lions ranked 30th in the league in both QB sacks and rushing yards.
Both positions were also plagued by injuries, and it’s clear that has factored into Bob Quinn’s decision-making. A healthy Ziggy Ansah, Ameer Abdullah, and Theo Riddick could do wonders.
One position that is largely going overlooked, however, is wide receiver.
Anquan Boldin’s stats last year weren’t spectacular, but his role was vital. He became a security blanket for Matthew Stafford, a go-to guy on 3rd down. While it’s possible he re-signs with the Lions, Detroit will have to compete for his services. The Baltimore Ravens have voiced interest, and opted not to draft a receiver.
Who the Lions Have Now
Of course, the Lions did draft Kenny Golladay in the third round. Golladay is certainly an intriguing prospect, boasting impressive size and speed. Unfortunately, he is also coming from lesser competition and is going to need time to refine his skills.
As Greg Cossell told DetroitLions.com this week:
"“I think he’s a little unrefined as a route runner, which most college guys are, but I think he is definitely a little unrefined. He needs coaching to understand the nuances and details of NFL route running so his size and speed can become a factor.”"
So if Golladay can’t be counted on to contribute day one, where can the Lions go?
Their roster doesn’t offer an obvious solution. T.J. Jones has spent the most time on the Lions’ roster, but hasn’t stood out since being drafted two years ago in the 6th round.
Former Spartan Keyshawn Martin has had the most production in his career, but profiles as “just a guy.” The team signed Jared Abbrederis this offseason, but he was an afterthought his two years in Green Bay.
Golden Tate has endorsed Jace Billingsley (aka White Thunder) as a breakout player. Billingsley did lead the Lions in receiving last preseason, but never showed enough to make the active roster until very late in the season (never getting a chance to make an impact).
As such, expect the Lions to add a receiver before training camp.
Free Agent Options
The free agency market certainly offers experience.
Michael Floyd is available after his train wreck 2016. Floyd was booted from Arizona after getting busted for “extreme” DUI. He did earn a Super Bowl ring, but was a non-factor for the Patriots. I don’t expect him to be a Lion, but he could end up playing in Detroit as reports connect him to Minnesota.
Victor Cruz is the biggest name on the market, but he didn’t show Carolina enough to get a contract in March. Marquess Wilson and Stevie Johnson are both coming off injuries, but each offers a record of solid production.
Get Philly on the Phone
The best options for the Lions may be a trade.
My first call would be to Philadelphia. The Eagles paid serious money to two new receivers and have three intriguing young receivers who may be worth a roll of the dice: Jordan Matthews, Dorial Green-Beckham, and Nelson Agholor.
Jordan Matthews
The best of the group is Jordan Matthews, who has surpassed 67 receptions and 804 yards every year in the NFL. Doug Pederson has said Matthews is still in the Eagles’ plans, but the Philly media thinks otherwise. He is in the last year of his deal, but he may be worth a one-year flyer for Detroit.
Nelson Agholor
The other two lack Matthews’ production, but have the benefit of an extra two years on their contracts. Nelson Agholor was rumored to be a target of Martin Mayhew in 2015, but hasn’t shown much in Philly. Agholor has struggled mentally with the pressures of pro football. He ended up as a healthy scratch for multiple games last year. He does have the physical talent of a first-round pick, though. Maybe a fresh start is what he needs to be a pro player.
Dorial Green-Beckham
Agholor’s struggles are a big reason the Eagles traded for Green-Beckham last year. Of course, the fact Tennessee was willing to part with a high 2nd round pick after his rookie year isn’t a great sign either. DGB also has a history of off the field problems, dating back to his time at Missouri. He does offer a ton of athletic upside though. At 6’5” he would instantly become the tallest skill player on the team.
My guess would be at least two of these three receivers don’t end up playing in Philadelphia this year. Each has their pros and cons, but all of them offer the Lions upside. If Detroit wants to put themselves in the best position possible to win in 2017, I would offer a Day 3 pick for Jordan Matthews.
Kenny Golladay may be the future, but the Lions are playing for the present. White Thunder could certainly prove Golden Tate right, but he’s going to have to beat out a veteran to be WR3.
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