Detroit Lions Coaches Are Going to be Impressed, and Fall in Love With UDFA Signing Jackson Meeks and Jakobie Keeney-James From UMass
Lions Coaches Expected to Be Impressed by Undrafted WR Signing
Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell addresses the media during the NFL Annual League Meeting held at The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida, on April 1, 2025. (Credit: Jim Rassol – Imagn Images)
The 2025 NFL Draft is officially in the books, and the Detroit Lions came away with impactful selections on both sides of the ball. The team walked away with seven total picks—four on offense, including two wide receivers and a pair of offensive guards, and three on defense, consisting of two defensive linemen and a safety. Lions brass, including GM Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell, made it clear pre-draft that adding youth to the receiving corps was a top priority—and they succeeded.
One of the standout draft additions was third-rounder Isaac TeSlaa out of Arkansas, a talented pass-catcher who could eventually become a starter. However, the Lions didn’t stop with the draft. After it concluded, they quickly moved to sign two undrafted wide receivers: Jackson Meeks from Syracuse and Jakobie Keeney-James from UMass.
Although the odds are steep for either UDFA to make the final 53-man roster, one of them already has traits that could win over Detroit’s coaching staff.
Jackson Meeks’ Grit and Drive Could Win Over Lions Staff
Jackson Meeks might not have heard his name called on draft weekend, but he brings a mentality that fits perfectly with Detroit’s culture. According to Dane Brugler of The Athletic in his annual draft guide The Beast, Syracuse head coach Fran Brown—who previously coached at Georgia, where Meeks began his college career—called him “a dawg.”
That kind of mindset mirrors the approach of Lions star receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, who rose to NFL stardom by relentlessly proving his worth after being a fourth-round pick. Meeks faces a more difficult path, but sharing that fiery determination is an essential quality for anyone hoping to break through.
In the 2024 season, Meeks posted solid numbers: 77 catches for 1,020 yards and seven touchdowns on 115 targets. He ranked second in the nation in contested catches with 21, despite lacking elite speed. While he may not be a burner, Meeks thrives in tight coverage and could shine in red-zone situations as a physical target.
Though earning a roster spot won’t be easy, Meeks’ relentless work ethic and gritty playing style make him a natural fit for a Lions team that values toughness and heart above all else.
