The Detroit Lions boast one of the strongest rosters in the league. Despite their divisional-round playoff exit at the hands of the Washington Commanders, they entered the season as Super Bowl favorites and are expected to remain serious contenders in 2025.
However, even the best teams must continue improving. Jared Goff struggled in the postseason loss, and while Detroit already has standout wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, adding another dynamic playmaker could elevate the offense further.
A recent CBS Sports mock draft projects the Lions selecting Luther Burden III, a wide receiver from the University of Missouri, with the 28th overall pick.
“Don’t let Burden’s 2024 stats fool you—he’s an elite receiver prospect with enormous potential,” analyst Chris Trapasso noted.
Burden’s production in 2024 included 61 receptions, 676 yards, and six touchdowns, but his 2023 numbers were far more impressive: 86 catches, 1,212 yards, and nine touchdowns. Over his three-year college career, he amassed 2,263 receiving yards and 25 total touchdowns.
At the NFL Scouting Combine, he showcased his athleticism with a 4.41-second 40-yard dash. His NFL.com scouting report highlights his five-star athleticism, playmaking ability, and exceptional yards-after-catch skills.
The Lions led the league in points scored and first downs last season. Adding Burden to an already explosive offense could make them even more dangerous as they chase a championship.
