The Detroit Lions may need to bolster their wide receiver unit, as the team lacks depth beyond Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. While Tim Patrick is a solid third option, general manager Brad Holmes might consider adding another offensive weapon for quarterback Jared Goff.
Christian Booher of Sports Illustrated has suggested that Detroit should pursue free agent wide receiver Tyler Lockett, who remains one of the most accomplished pass-catchers available on the market.
“Lockett has consistently been a highly productive receiver and could be a valuable asset for the Lions’ offense. Although he has primarily operated from the slot, a position currently held by Amon-Ra St. Brown, the Lions’ star wideout has the flexibility to move outside if necessary. A short-term deal would allow Detroit to assess Lockett’s impact in his age-33 season,” Booher explained.
Lockett became a free agent after being released by the Seattle Seahawks on March 5, ending a decade-long tenure with the organization. At 32, he is coming off a less productive campaign, recording 49 receptions for 600 yards and two touchdowns over 17 games in 2024.
Despite his recent dip in production, Lockett was a dominant force in previous seasons. From 2019 to 2022, he posted four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons with at least eight touchdowns. In 2023, he finished with 79 receptions for 894 yards and five touchdowns, proving he can still contribute at a high level.
A fresh start in Detroit could help him regain his form, and the Lions would benefit from his presence. A 2015 first-team All-Pro selection, Lockett could provide Goff with a reliable target and help elevate the team’s aerial attack.
Additionally, Lockett would come at a reasonable price. Spotrac projects him to land a one-year, $7.7 million contract, and with $52.8 million in available cap space (per Over the Cap), the Lions have the financial flexibility to make a move.
While some may question whether St. Brown and Lockett’s similar playing styles could cause redundancy, the veteran receiver’s experience and leadership would add value to John Morton’s receiving corps, giving the Lions a more dynamic offense heading into the season.
