By Blessing 
2025 NFL Combine: 12 Wide Receivers the Detroit Lions Should Scout
With the 2025 NFL Combine approaching at the end of February, the Detroit Lions will be keeping a close eye on several position groups as they evaluate potential draft picks. So far, we’ve examined which quarterbacks and running backs might fit their needs. Now, let’s turn our attention to the wide receivers who could be on their radar.
All three offensive position groups—quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers—will take part in on-field drills at the Combine, airing live on NFL Network on Saturday, March 1.
Why Wide Receiver is a Need for the Lions
Detroit’s receiving corps is already in a strong position with Amon-Ra St. Brown (WR1), Jameson Williams (WR2), and Kalif Raymond (WR4). However, the WR3 spot remains a bit of a question mark heading into the offseason. Tim Patrick filled that role well last season, but he’s set to hit free agency and will turn 32 during the upcoming campaign.
Even beyond Patrick, there are other factors to consider. Raymond and Williams are both in the final year of their contracts, though the Lions could exercise Williams’ fifth-year option, keeping him under contract through 2026. Regardless of what happens with those decisions, adding a young, long-term option at WR3—preferably someone who can handle the WR-X role—would give Detroit valuable depth and stability at the position.
What to Look for in a Wide Receiver at the Combine
NFL wide receivers come in all shapes and sizes, but there are a few key traits that separate the great ones from the rest. As Detroit’s scouting team evaluates this year’s WR class, these are some of the most critical factors to watch for:
- Hands – Do they catch the ball away from their body, or do they struggle with concentration drops?
- Body control – Can they maintain balance at high speeds, or do they get knocked off their routes?
- Route running – Do they keep their speed coming out of breaks, or do they slow down?
- Ball tracking – Can they locate and adjust to the ball while maintaining speed?
- Maximizing speed – Are they efficient in their strides, or do they waste motion?
- Sideline awareness – Can they keep their feet inbounds and maintain possession?
With these skills in mind, let’s dive into 12 wide receivers the Lions should be paying close attention to at the 2025 NFL Combine.
Top Wide Receiver Prospects
1. Tetairoa McMillan (Arizona, 6’5″, 210 lbs)
McMillan is a nightmare matchup for defenders, combining elite ball skills with deceptive speed. His ability to make contested catches while maintaining agility after the catch makes him a prime WR-X candidate. A popular NFL comparison is Atlanta’s Drake London, which highlights his potential as a big-bodied playmaker.
2. Luther Burden III (Missouri, 5’11”, 208 lbs)
An All-American in 2023, Burden had a slightly less productive 2024 season due to Missouri’s offensive struggles. He has experience playing all three receiver spots but thrives best at WR-Z and in the slot. His reliable hands and ability to create separation make him one of the best in this class with the ball in his hands.
3. Emeka Egbuka (Ohio State, 6’1″, 195 lbs)
Egbuka is as consistent as they come. His best position is in the slot, though he also functions well as a WR-Z. He’s a savvy route-runner who understands how to manipulate defenders, and his physicality makes him an asset in both the passing game and blocking situations. While he’s not a seamless fit for Detroit’s scheme, he embodies their tough, gritty mentality.
Receivers with Coaching Connections to the Lions
4. Matthew Golden (Texas, 6’0″, 195 lbs)
Golden’s connection to Detroit comes through new running backs coach Tashard Choice, who previously coached at Texas. Like Burden, Golden has the versatility to play anywhere, but he may be best suited for WR-Z and slot duties at the next level. He excels on quick passes, crossing routes, and stretching the field.
5. Jayden Higgins (Iowa State, 6’4″, 217 lbs)
Higgins links to Detroit’s new tight ends coach Tyler Roehl, who was at Iowa State last year. He’s a true WR-X with the size and physicality to win contested catches, thanks in part to his basketball background. He’s not the best separator, but his ability to high-point the ball makes him a valuable red-zone target.
6. Jaylin Noel (Iowa State, 5’10”, 196 lbs)
Noel, another Iowa State product, is a dynamic slot receiver with top-end speed and sure hands. He’s a big-play threat every time he touches the ball and also provides value as a return specialist. His connection to Roehl could put him on Detroit’s radar.
7. Elic Ayomanor (Stanford, 6’2″, 210 lbs)
Ayomanor was recruited to Stanford by David Shaw, the Lions’ new passing game coordinator. Though he redshirted during Shaw’s last season, he remains an intriguing prospect. The Canadian-born WR-X is physically NFL-ready but still developing his game.
8. Isaiah Bond (Texas, 5’11”, 182 lbs)
Bond has ties to Tashard Choice but is a bit of a wild card. Some scouts believe he’s a first-round talent, while others think he might slide into Day 3. His speed and quickness should help his stock at the Combine, making him one to watch.
Potential WR-X Targets on Day 2
9. Tre Harris (Mississippi, 6’2″, 210 lbs)
A true WR-X, Harris has experience running deep routes, short passes, and working over the middle. He’s strong, dependable, and fits the mold of a physical outside receiver that could thrive in Detroit’s system.
10. Jack Bech (TCU, 6’1 ½”, 212 lbs)
Bech dominated Senior Bowl practices and won MVP of the game with a game-winning touchdown. He’s strong, has reliable hands, and understands how to create separation, making him an intriguing mid-round option.
11. Tory Horton (Colorado State, 6’2″, 195 lbs)
Horton projects as either a WR-X or WR-Z, with the ability to stretch the field and track deep passes effortlessly. He’s physically ready for the NFL, though he may need time to develop into a consistent starter.
A Gadget Wildcard
12. Savion Williams (TCU, 6’4″, 228 lbs)
Williams first stands out due to his massive frame, but his versatility is what makes him special. While he’s still raw as a route-runner, he has the potential to be a Cordarrelle Patterson-type player, capable of lining up in the slot, outside, or even the backfield. If an offense gets creative with him, he could be a dangerous weapon.
Final Thoughts
The Detroit Lions don’t have an urgent need at wide receiver, but with Tim Patrick’s future uncertain and key contracts expiring soon, they’ll likely consider adding a young WR-X prospect in this year’s draft. The 2025 NFL Combine will be a great opportunity to evaluate potential playmakers, and these 12 wide receivers should be at the top of Detroit’s watchlist.
- Keep an eye on these names when drills begin on March 1, as one of them could be catching passes in a Lions uniform next season.