By Mummy Grace 
After more than two years away from meaningful NFL action, former Detroit Lions wide receiver Quintez Cephus is inching closer to a potential comeback. The ex-Lion, who was hit with a major suspension for violating the NFL’s gambling policy in 2022, was among six receivers brought in for a tryout with the San Francisco 49ers, according to Josh Dubow of the Associated Press.
Cephus, a fifth-round pick by Detroit in 2020, had a modest career start with 37 catches for 568 yards and four touchdowns over his first three seasons. But his career hit a wall when he was suspended for the entire 2023 season. After being reinstated in April 2024, he bounced around multiple teams’ practice squads, including the Bills, Texans, and Rams, but failed to stick.
Now, the 27-year-old may have found a new shot in San Francisco, a team dealing with unexpected turmoil in its receiver room. Star wideout Brandon Aiyuk is recovering from a major knee injury, Demarcus Robinson is suspended three games, and Jauan Jennings has requested a trade. On top of that, promising rookie Ricky Pearsall opened camp on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, leaving the 49ers scrambling for depth.
Cephus likely faces an uphill battle to make the final roster, especially with Pearsall expected to return soon. However, landing even a camp invite marks a big step for a player who once seemed completely out of the league. While it’s a long shot, Cephus could capitalize on the chaos in San Francisco and remind the league of the potential he once showed in Detroit.
Whether or not he makes it past training camp, the opportunity is a significant moment in Cephus’s road to redemption — and a reminder that in the NFL, second chances still exist.