Amon-Ra St. Brown has a remarkable first two seasons, setting Lions franchise records and putting himself in some heady company in NFL history for a wide receiver's first two seasons. The term "overvalued" was misconstrued in a recent article at CBS Sports, which essentially said that St. Brown is too heavily relied on in the Lions' receiving corps.
If St. Brown were to go down to a major injury this season, it would be an unequivocal nightmare for the Lions. Even those who want to overly prop up Marvin Jones, Josh Reynolds, Jameson Williams (once he's back from his suspension) and/or Kalif Raymond would admit that.
Next to quarterback Jared Goff going down with a significant injury, such an injury for St. Brown is a close No. 2 on the "promising season goes down the tubes if (insert name) goes down" list for the Lions. Within the idea the Lions could still upgrade their backup quarterback situation, a major injury for St. Brown could become No. 1 on said list.
Amon-Ra St. Brown reinforced as the most important player for the Detroit Lions this year
I've given it away. But on Pro Football Focus' list of most important non-quarterback for each NFC team, St. Brown was the pick for the Lions.
"St. Brown’s 90.7 overall grade in 2022 wasn’t just the second-best mark among qualified receivers. It was the second-best grade in franchise history, behind Calvin Johnson in 2011 (91.2). St. Brown has become nearly impossible to cover in the slot. He is excellent after the catch and dropped only four passes last season.Dalton Wasserman, Pro Football Focus
His importance will continue to rise as Jameson Williams misses time due to suspension. Detroit’s skill players otherwise are Marvin Jones Jr., Josh Reynolds and multiple rookies. St. Brown is currently the only elite player of the bunch. As Jared Goff’s primary safety net, St. Brown will need to have another big season if Detroit hopes to end its playoff drought"
Noting written above by Dalton Wasserman of PFF is breaking news, a stretch or subject to opinion. It's indisputable facts about St. Brown's accomplishments, and where the Lions are around him at the offensive skill positions--albeit with no mention of running back David Montgomery, who wouldn't be called "elite."
If there needed to be any reinforcement of St.Brown's importance to the Lions this year, it has arrived.