ESPN analyst Praises Detroit Lions’ WR selection ‘a big-time pickup’

The Detroit Lions weren’t content with just one second-round trade in the 2025 NFL Draft—they made another move to grab a potential hidden gem.

With the sixth pick in the third round (No. 70 overall), the Lions selected Arkansas wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa on Friday night. TeSlaa’s path to the NFL has been anything but ordinary. Originally a quarterback at Unity Christian High School in Hudsonville, Michigan, he made a name for himself at Division II Hillsdale College with two standout seasons before transferring to Arkansas. Over two years with the Razorbacks, he recorded 62 receptions for 896 yards and five touchdowns.

ESPN’s Louis Riddick was enthusiastic about the pick, expressing surprise that TeSlaa wasn’t utilized more at Arkansas. “This guy didn’t get nearly enough looks in college,” Riddick said. “But Detroit’s going to love him. He’s a 6-foot-4, 214-pound slot receiver with 4.43 speed, but moves like he’s lighter. He’s explosive, tough, and has an enormous catch radius. Once he’s got the ball—he’s gone.”

The selection is especially meaningful for TeSlaa, a Michigan native and longtime Lions supporter. He even attended the NFC Championship game in 2023 when Detroit fell to San Francisco. Now, he’s suiting up for his favorite team, aiming to help them push for a Super Bowl.

Riddick added that TeSlaa’s size and toughness will make him a tough cover in the slot. “Line him up with playmakers like Jameson Williams, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Sam LaPorta, Jahmyr Gibbs, and David Montgomery—that’s a serious group,” he said. “Detroit just keeps stacking talent. This is a major addition.”