“Lions Could Reunite With Surprise Former Player in Desperate Move”.

“Lions Could Reunite With Surprise Former Player in Desperate Move”.

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Lions Could Reunite With Surprise Former Player in Desperate Move

Detroit’s thin receiver depth could open the door for a familiar face in 2025

A Question of Depth Behind the Stars

The Detroit Lions head into the 2025 season with one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses — at least on paper. But beneath the surface of a promising unit lies a lingering question: do they have enough reliable firepower at wide receiver to keep the momentum going?

Amon-Ra St. Brown remains an elite weapon, and Jameson Williams showed flashes late in 2024 that suggested a breakout could be coming. Yet outside of those two, Jared Goff is staring at a depth chart full of question marks. The Lions’ front office attempted to address that in April’s draft, trading up to land Division II standout Isaac TeSlaa in the third round, while also scooping up Dominic Lovett later on. Both prospects carry promise, but banking on rookies can be a risky game — especially for a team with championship aspirations.

A Familiar Name Resurfaces

With concerns over receiver depth looming, a familiar name has quietly reentered the conversation: D.J. Chark.

Chark, who suited up for the Lions in 2022, is currently a free agent after a quiet, injury-plagued stint with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2024. He played just seven games last season and logged a mere 31 receiving yards. But back in his Detroit days, he was far more productive — posting 502 yards and three touchdowns on 52 targets in what was a respectable showing.

Now, with TeSlaa and Lovett still learning the ropes and no proven third option established, the Lions might be forced to look backward in order to move forward.

Why a Chark Reunion Makes Sense

While Chark wouldn’t be brought in to dominate targets or become a top priority in Ben Johnson’s offense, his presence could serve several purposes. As a veteran who already has familiarity with Detroit’s system, he could hit the ground running. More importantly, he would provide a dependable downfield option to relieve pressure from Williams and St. Brown.

If neither rookie proves ready for a significant role by the end of training camp, Chark could offer the team a safety net — both in execution and in mentorship. His experience in different offensive schemes and locker rooms across the league could prove invaluable for the development of young pass-catchers trying to find their footing.

And with Jared Goff expected to lead a Super Bowl-hopeful roster, giving him one more reliable option — even as a rotational piece — might be a wise move.

Not a Star, But a Strategic Fit

Let’s be clear: D.J. Chark would not be a game-changer in Detroit’s offensive philosophy. The Lions will still lean heavily on their potent run game, led by the electric duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. They’ll still look to stretch the field with their primary weapons and utilize Sam LaPorta across the middle. But even championship rosters need depth, especially at a position as physically demanding and scheme-dependent as wide receiver.

Bringing Chark back wouldn’t signal panic — it would signal prudence. If Detroit wants to avoid early-season stumbles due to growing pains from untested rookies, adding a familiar veteran could be the subtle, stabilizing move that helps keep the offense humming.