Lions Eye Potential Game-Changing WR Addition
Bleacher Report’s Brad Gagnon predicts the Detroit Lions will target a top-tier wide receiver, such as Amari Cooper or Tee Higgins, at the NFL trade deadline to complement Amon-Ra St. Brown. With the Lions gearing up for a potential Super Bowl run, adding a game-changing WR could be the final piece of the puzzle.
Super Bowl Contenders in the Making
The Detroit Lions are increasingly viewed as Super Bowl contenders. Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report sees them making a bold move at the NFL trade deadline to acquire a standout wide receiver from the AFC North. Gagnon names Amari Cooper and Tee Higgins as the most likely candidates for this crucial acquisition.
“The Lions are gearing up. A team that has never been to the Super Bowl can clearly smell it, and another strong offseason of shoring up and bolstering weak spots indicates they’re all-in,” Gagnon wrote. “Potential targets include Amari Cooper if the Browns aren’t competitive and Tee Higgins if the Bengals fall off again. Both walk-year veteran receivers could be game-changers in Detroit.”
Addressing the Lions’ Offensive Weakness
Amon-Ra St. Brown has emerged as one of the NFL’s top wideouts, but the Lions’ offense still has a notable gap at the No. 2 wide receiver position. The departure of veteran receiver Josh Reynolds in free agency left a void that the Lions have yet to fill. Reynolds was productive in 2023, with 40 catches, 608 receiving yards, and 5 touchdowns.
Despite having elite pass catchers at running back and tight end — with 2023 rookies Jahmyr Gibbs and Sam LaPorta — the Lions’ passing offense could benefit significantly from another top receiver. Both Cooper and Higgins could fill this role effectively.
Why Cooper and Higgins Are Ideal Targets
Amari Cooper has made five Pro Bowls and posted 72 catches, 1,250 receiving yards, and 5 touchdowns in 2023 despite inconsistent quarterback play for the Cleveland Browns. Tee Higgins, despite a statistical decline in 2023 due to quarterback Joe Burrow’s injury, still recorded a career-best 15.6 yards per catch average.
Both Cooper and Higgins are set to become free agents next March, making them potential rental players if the Browns or Bengals are not in playoff contention by the end of October.
Lions Banking on Williams and Peoples-Jones
The Lions’ decision to hold off on a significant receiver addition this offseason stems from their faith in the current roster’s depth. Jameson Williams, entering his third NFL season, is expected to make a significant leap in 2024. Head coach Dan Campbell expressed high expectations for Williams, noting his marked improvement in early practices.
Williams finished the 2023 season with 24 catches, 354 receiving yards, and 2 touchdowns, averaging 14.8 yards per catch. Veteran Donovan Peoples-Jones, acquired at the trade deadline last season, has also shown promise.
Should Williams or Peoples-Jones step up as an elite WR2, the Lions might not need to pursue another wide receiver. However, if additional firepower is necessary, Cooper and Higgins remain attractive options to boost the Lions’ Super Bowl aspirations.
