A key member of the Detroit Lions’ 2024 roster who is now a free agent has publicly expressed his desire to stay with the team.
Throughout this offseason, the Lions have done a solid job of keeping key players from last season. So far, only three players from their 2024 squad have signed with other teams, while the franchise has managed to re-sign eight of its own free agents.
Among those retained are defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike and linebacker Derrick Barnes, both of whom were expected to draw interest from other teams.
Now, another free agent who played for the Lions last season has made it clear he hopes to continue his career in Detroit.
Wide receiver Tim Patrick shared an Instagram story (reported by The Detroit Times) featuring a jacket with a bold statement on the back: “I only want to work with the Lions.”
Patrick had not played in a regular-season game for two years before joining the Lions. In 2022, he tore his ACL before the season started, and in 2023, an Achilles injury sidelined him for the entire year.
After signing with Detroit, he was able to reestablish himself in the league. Serving as the Lions’ third wide receiver, Patrick appeared in 16 games, recording 33 receptions for 394 yards and three touchdowns. Additionally, 20 of his catches resulted in first downs.
While his numbers may not be eye-catching, they are solid considering the competition for targets. He shared the field with playmakers like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Sam LaPorta, and Jahmyr Gibbs, all of whom played significant roles in the offense.
Now that he has put together a full, healthy season following back-to-back injuries, Patrick could offer even more in 2025. His contributions last year came on a team-friendly contract, and if Detroit decides to bring him back, he would be a strong option to remain their WR3 moving forward.
