The Detroit Lions had one of the strongest wide receiver rooms in the NFL in 2025, but the depth chart might look a bit different heading into week one this season. Second-year wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa showed promise as a rookie, and some predict him to have a more prominent role in 2026.
After all, the size (6-foot-4) and athleticism of TeSlaa could compliment the playmaking prowess of Amon Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams well. However, after a disappointing and somewhat shocking performance in the first preseason game, TeSlaa could be closer to losing playing time than he is to gaining it.
Cedrick Wilson Jr. could become WR3 for Lions in 2026
In the 16-14 loss to the Bengals, TeSlaa was targeted three times for zero catches. Rookie quarterback Luke Altmyer had a decent debut, but his two interceptions are misleading, as one of them went right through the hands of TeSlaa on the opening drive. On the following Lions possession, TeSlaa dropped another pass.
Drops have reportedly been a trend for TeSlaa this summer, and Wilson could be fit to take his reps. The veteran is listed at 6-foot-2, and Lions head coach Dan Campbell praised Wilson during training camp as well.
"He's a different body type (and) a different type of receiver for us," Campbell said.
Out of every other receiver currently on the roster, Wilson is the only one with size and a proven ability to produce for a full season in the NFL. Wilson was drafted in the sixth round of the 2018 draft by the Dallas Cowboys, before joining the Miami Dolphins as a free agent in 2022. He also spent time with the New Orleans Saints in 2024 before rejoining the Dolphins last season after the Tyreek Hill injury.
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Wilson's best season came in 2021, posting 45 receptions for 602 yards and six touchdowns. Additionally, he did so as he battled for targets with Ceedee Lamb, Amari Cooper and Dalton Schultz, proving he can produce in an offense with weapons. Given the opportunity, he should be able to do the same with the Lions.
Wilson's production dipped once he left Dallas, but it could have been a result of going from Dak Prescott at quarterback to Tua Tagovailoa. However, with Jared Goff spinning the rock, Wilson could be in line for a resurgence should he take Teslaa's spot.
Even with a shaky summer and a bleak performance in the first preseason game, TeSlaa still has time to reestablish himself among the Lions pass catchers. The Michigan native has had some positive moments in practice, but if he doesn't translate it to a game before week one, Wilson is most likely (and most capable) to step in.
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