Detroit Lions: Which wide receiver will step up?

Injuries are mounting for the Detroit Lions‘ pass catchers. Of those who remain, who will separate themselves from the pack in the receiver corps?

Things got even worse for the Detroit Lions at wide receiver once Bruce Ellington was downgraded to out with a hamstring injury this week. No position has suffered more this season.

Yet Sunday, against the Buffalo Bills, there’s an opportunity to be had. Targets are up for grabs. The question becomes, who cashes in? Opponents have done a good job taming top receiver Kenny Golladay, but only because his teammates aren’t taking any pressure off him.

T.J. Jones and Andy Jones have been almost none existent on offense, contributing more as special teamers. This leaves one unlikely candidate left, Brandon Powell.

Hampered by a bum calf in recent weeks, the undrafted free agent rookie is back in the swing of things and off the injury report. His abilities are strikingly similar to Ellington, who both get open quickly and do some damage with yards after the catch.

Theo Riddick was expected to take control of what Golden Tate (traded to the Philadelphia Eagles) left behind but his play has taken a step back this year. To say he’s been a disappointment is an understatement, switching between running back and slot receiver.

Powell in many ways is also like Riddick, versatile and explosive. I’ve got a good feeling these last three games could catapult his career moving forward.

Special teams, in particular, the return units are lacking any threat. His presence alone will boost the unit’s chances of making a big play or scoring.

Playoffs are not likely. The remaining contests you could consider pre-preseason games. Using this time to evaluate future talent isn’t a bad idea.

Golden Tate has spoken very highly of Brandon Powell. If even a dusting of Showtime rubbed off on the rook, the Detroit Lions are in good shape moving forward.