Can the Lions Find the Right WR3 in Free Agency?

With free agency on the horizon, the Detroit Lions find themselves in a tricky position when it comes to strengthening their wide receiver corps. While Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams form a strong duo, the departure of Josh Reynolds has left a void at the WR3 spot. The Lions need to find a reliable third option, but the free-agent market presents limited opportunities, pushing Detroit toward veteran solutions.

Current Wide Receiver Situation

Detroit enters free agency with a core of St. Brown, Williams, Kalif Raymond, and Antoine Green under contract. Tim Patrick, who was signed last season after being released by the Denver Broncos, provided a steady but unspectacular presence, tallying nearly 400 yards and three touchdowns. However, while Patrick developed chemistry with quarterback Jared Goff, he lacked the dynamic playmaking ability Reynolds once brought.

Bringing Patrick back for another season could be a logical move, particularly with new offensive coordinator John Morton now overseeing the unit. Morton worked with Patrick in Denver and specializes in coaching wide receivers. A full offseason in Detroit’s system could improve Patrick’s impact. However, at 32 years old by November, the Lions must consider a younger, more dynamic WR3 option.

Limited Free-Agent Options for WR3

The free-agent market does not offer many clear solutions, especially for teams looking for young, big-bodied receivers. Among the more intriguing but unlikely targets is DeAndre Hopkins. Though turning 33 in June, the five-time Pro Bowler is coming off a strong season with Kansas City. While his experience and playmaking ability are undeniable, he doesn’t fit the Lions’ mold for WR3. Still, pairing him with St. Brown, Williams, and tight end Sam LaPorta could create an exciting offensive mix if the Chiefs decide not to re-sign him.

Another familiar name is D.J. Chark, who previously spent time with the Lions. Chark has a rapport with Goff and understands Detroit’s offensive system, making him a logical consideration. However, his injury history raises concerns. While a return isn’t impossible, it’s more likely that the Lions will pass on him unless he remains unsigned deep into the offseason.

More Realistic Targets

If Detroit is serious about addressing the WR3 spot in free agency, several realistic candidates stand out:

• Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (Titans) – At 6-foot-2 and 211 pounds, Westbrook-Ikhine offers a solid mix of size, versatility, and experience. He can play inside and outside while showing a knack for scoring, finishing last season with 497 yards and nine touchdowns. The Lions saw his potential firsthand when he scored against them in a Week 8 blowout win over the Titans.
• Marquez Valdes-Scantling (Saints) – A well-traveled receiver, Valdes-Scantling has remained productive despite frequent team changes. He has experience in the NFC North from his time with Green Bay and brings a championship pedigree as a two-time Super Bowl winner with Kansas City. At 6-foot-4, he provides a big target who could serve as both a contributor and a mentor.
• Mike Williams (Steelers) – Williams’ market remains uncertain, but when healthy, he’s a proven deep threat. If his price aligns with Detroit’s budget, he could be a worthwhile addition, giving Goff a receiver capable of making contested catches downfield.

Tight End Not a Priority, but Depth Could Be Added

While wide receiver is a concern, tight end is not a pressing need for the Lions. Sam LaPorta has established himself as a reliable target, finishing with over 700 receiving yards and seven touchdowns last season. With Brock Wright still under contract, Detroit has stability at the position.

If they choose to add depth, bringing back restricted free agent Shane Zylstra on a team-friendly deal makes sense. Another option could be veteran Hayden Hurst. Though his production has dipped in recent years, Hurst remains a dependable backup and could provide insurance if LaPorta were to miss time. Plus, he wouldn’t come with a hefty price tag.

Conclusion

The Lions face a difficult challenge in upgrading their WR3 position through free agency. While Tim Patrick remains a viable short-term option, Detroit must explore alternatives to add youth and explosiveness to the offense. With limited top-tier options available, the team may need to take a calculated risk on a veteran receiver or turn to the draft to find a long-term solution.