Whatever the Lions future, Kenny Golladay should be part of it

The Detroit Lions should make Kenny Golladay a part of their future

One of the biggest questions hanging over the Detroit Lions‘ organization this offseason was when, not if, the team would lock up wide receiver Kenny Golladay with a hefty contract extension. After all, the uber-talented wideout is currently in the final year of his rookie deal in Detroit.

Unfortunately for both Golladay and the Lions, the fourth-year receiver has struggled to remain healthy this season. Having played only a handful of games so far this year, five to be exact, the 27-year old has battled both hamstring and hip issues.

The fact Golladay has missed so much time this season would seem to negatively impact a potential long-term deal getting done in Detroit. But it might actually be doing the opposite as the Lions are clearly not the same offensively without him. Of Motown’s four victories so far this year, three of them have come with Golladay in the lineup.

In just five games, Golladay has posted 20 receptions for 338 yards and two touchdowns. And his 16.9 yards per catch average is second only to the speedster Marvin Hall. And it’s Golladay’s unique 6-foot-4 frame combined with his deep-threat ability that makes him so special. Last season, he lead the NFL with 11 touchdown receptions, earning his first Pro Bowl nomination.

Kenny Golladay’s absence has proved his value to the Detroit Lions

Here’s what Around The NFL Editor, Gregg Rosenthal, recently wrote on NFL.com about Golladay’s season and why the Lions should break the bank to keep him.

"“Players never want to get hurt during a contract year. Then again, Kenny Golladay’s occasional absence from the Lions lineup has only outlined his terrific value. If Golladay plays, the Lions’ offense has a chance to be explosive. If not, they are stuck in mud … finding the money to bring back Golladay feels like the easiest move the Lions can make.”"

Following Sunday’s blowout loss to the Carolina Panthers, the Lions appear to be headed for a rebuild soon. And the outcome of their upcoming Thanksgiving Day matchup against the Houston Texans could spark that change with the firing of head coach Matt Patricia and potentially, general manager Bob Quinn as well.

If the Detroit Lions do decide to get a head start on their offseason 12 weeks into the regular season, one of the first decisions this new regime should make is re-signing Kenny Golladay to a long-term deal. Despite his lack of availability this season, Golladay is a rare commodity that Detroit can not afford to lose. Instead, he should become a foundational piece in which a new team is built around.