His two critical drops in the NFC Championship Game loss to the San Francisco 49ers have Detroit Lions' fans wanting him gone. But overall, over two-plus seasons, Josh Reynolds has been a solid contributor (14.4 yards per catch, 10 touchdowns). A bad outing, even in a big game, does not erase everything else.
Reynolds is also a free agent, with an uncertain role in the Lions' offense next season should he be re-signed. Jameson Williams emerged down the stretch this past season, and it's wheels up on a breakout season for him in his third year.
Adam Caplan of Pro Football Network got right to the point in his recent free agency notes piece covering each team in the NFC North.
"Veteran receiver Josh Reynolds, even if the team re-signs him, is expected to be replaced as a full-time starter by third-year WR Jameson Williams."
So it's possible, or even likely, that Reynolds finds a larger role elsewhere. To say nothing of more money, or a multi-year deal. Spotrac has projected his market value at two-years, $14 million. The Lions might do two years, but $7 million per might be on the high side for them.
Two top AFC teams projected as free agency fits for Lions WR Josh Reynolds
Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report has Reynolds on his recent list of seven overlooked free agents that every team must prioritize. He narrowed to a couple team fits for each.
While Reynolds is not a No. 1 receiver, he has shown he can be a piece of a good offense dating back to his time with the Los Angeles Rams. The fits Ballentine has for him, both in the AFC, fit that category.
"Reynolds could serve as a cost-effective replacement for Odell Beckham Jr. in Baltimore. Alternatively, the Buffalo Bills might be looking for a value version of Gabe Davis if he leaves in free agency."
It seems like the Ravens won't be bringing Beckham back. Reynolds would be cheaper, and fill the same role. Davis may get more on the open market than the Bills will (or should) pay him, opening them up as a suitor for a receiver of Reynolds' ilk.
If offers are equal, or close to it, Reynolds might choose to stay in Detroit. But if he can get more money, years, etc. than what the Lions will give him from another team, he won't be blamed for jumping at it.