5 Detroit Lions cut candidates going into the summer

4. WR Tre'Quan Smith

Barring something unforeseen at this point, Smith will be the only veteran wide receiver the Lions add this offseason. He was signed to a futures deal in early February, as the headliner of that group of signings. Prior to playing in just one game for the Denver Broncos last season, he spent his first five NFL seasons with the New Orleans Saints.

That time in New Orleans of course produces his tie to the Lions. Head coach Dan Campbell was the Saints' tight ends coach over Smith's first three NFL seasons, and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn was also on Sean Payton's staff as defensive backs coach.

That time in New Orleans of course produces his tie to the Lions. Head coach Dan Campbell was the Saints' tight ends coach over Smith's first three NFL seasons, and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn was also on Sean Payton's staff as defensive backs coach.

We know who the locks are to make the Lions' roster at wide receiver (Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Kalif Raymond, Donovan Peoples-Jones). Smith is primarily in a battle with Antoine Green (who may be a sneaky lock to make the roster), Tom Kennedy, Maurice Alexander and undrafted rookie Isaiah Williams for what will likely be one or two spots on the final 53-man roster going into the season.