The Detroit Lions are expected to pursue a wide receiver in the offseason, as they struggled to find consistent production at the position in 2024 beyond Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. While they could look to the draft for reinforcements, Ian Valentino of The 33rd Team suggests that Detroit might target veteran receiver Stefon Diggs in free agency.
According to Valentino, Diggs now primarily operates from the slot, using his strong hands, quickness, and toughness to keep drives alive and serve as a reliable option in key moments. He notes that if Houston decides to part ways with Diggs, Detroit would be a logical landing spot. Over the past couple of seasons, the Lions have relied on a rotating cast of receivers as their third option, including Tim Patrick and Josh Reynolds. Diggs, however, brings a different skill set, excelling more as a possession receiver rather than a big-play threat. This could provide Detroit with a stable and dependable option, rather than relying on offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to make the pieces fit.
Diggs was acquired by Houston from Buffalo last offseason but was limited to just eight games in 2024 due to a torn ACL. Despite the injury, he managed to record 47 receptions for 496 yards and three touchdowns. While he is now 31 and coming off a major setback, the former first-team All-Pro remains a precise route runner and could bring valuable experience and skill to the Lions’ receiving corps.
If signed, Diggs would likely slot in as Detroit’s third receiver alongside St. Brown and Williams, giving quarterback Jared Goff a dependable target across the middle. Financially, acquiring Diggs would not be overly costly. Spotrac estimates his market value at $13.5 million for a one-year deal, while Pro Football Focus projects he could receive a fully guaranteed contract worth $16 million for a single season.
The Lions are expected to have approximately $46 million in salary cap space this offseason, according to Over the Cap. This gives them more than enough flexibility to add Diggs while also addressing other roster needs.
While there is some risk involved due to Diggs’ age and injury history, his presence could elevate Detroit’s passing attack. If he returns to form, he may provide the missing piece that helps the Lions make a deeper postseason run.
