The beginning of the regular season in the NFL is two weeks away, and teams are beginning to take shape. The Detroit Lions will be without star tight end Sam LaPorta for an unknown amount of time, though the injury is not believed to be long-term. Luckily for the Lions, they might not have to look far to find another tight end.
Former wide receiver Jackson Meeks signed with Detroit after going undrafted in the 2025 draft. Meeks spent his first three years of college at Georgia, where he recorded a total of 10 receptions. He transferred to Syracuse for his senior season and put up 78 receptions for 1,021 yards and seven touchdowns. The Lions decided to try to fit him at tight end this offseason, and it seems as if it's already paying off.
Jackson Meeks could be the depth the Lions need at tight end
In the Lions' preseason win over the Washington Commanders, Meeks showed his potential. Not only did Meeks come up with four receptions for 33 yards, but he also grabbed a nice fourth down catch to extend a drive in the fourth quarter, and it could have solidified his spot on the roster.
If LaPorta misses a significant amount of time, it will be Brock Wright and Tyler Conklin taking over the majority of the responsibilities. Meeks, however, would be a nice depth addition and would provide more explosiveness at the position.
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After playing in just nine games last year due to a season-ending back injury, LaPorta hasn't played a full slate since he was a rookie. The free agent market is slim at tight end with the season approaching, as Jonnu Smith is the most notable name available. The Lions likely won't have to resort to signing Smith, but another injury could put them in the market.
Meeks is valuable on special teams as well, as he forced a fumble on a kickoff against the Commanders to seal a Lions win. With so much versatility, it's no wonder head coach Dan Campbell decided to keep him around. Another strong outing in the final preseason game on Saturday against the Colts could stamp Meeks' name on the 53-man roster.
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