While the Detroit Lions’ offseason plans have primarily centered around bolstering their defense, there are also some under-the-radar needs on offense. One area that may require attention is the wide receiver position, and a seasoned pass-catcher with multiple 1,000-yard seasons has been suggested as a potential acquisition.
Richard Silva of The Detroit News recently identified Dallas Cowboys wideout Brandin Cooks as a player the Lions should consider pursuing in the 2025 NFL offseason.
Cooks has consistently produced throughout his career, surpassing 550 receiving yards in each of his first 10 seasons before 2024. Although his prime years are behind him, he has maintained a steady level of reliability across five different teams. Additionally, Lions offensive coordinator John Morton previously coached Cooks as the Saints’ wide receivers coach from 2015-16, which could provide a level of familiarity.
However, Cooks is coming off the worst statistical season of his career, in part due to injuries that limited him to just 10 games. In 2024, he posted career-low numbers, averaging only 2.6 receptions and 25.9 yards per game—14 yards fewer per game than in any previous season. Even more concerning is that his yards-per-game average has dropped by at least 10 yards annually for the past four years.
Ultimately, Cooks’ suitability for the Lions will depend on his price tag. With Tim Patrick set to enter free agency and Josh Reynolds potentially being released, Detroit could find itself in need of a third wide receiver. That said, the position isn’t an urgent priority, as the team already has strong pass-catching options in Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Sam LaPorta, and Jahmyr Gibbs.
Given that Patrick contributed just 33 receptions for 394 yards in 2024, the Lions could benefit from adding an experienced veteran like Cooks—provided he comes at the right price. If not, they may be better off seeking a more cost-effective alternative as their fifth receiving option.
