By Sunday 
Lions Look to the Future at Wide Receiver
The Detroit Lions have built one of the most electrifying offenses in the NFL, but long-term roster management is always a priority. With star receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown due for a major payday and Jameson Williams potentially commanding a significant extension in the future, the Lions might have to make tough financial decisions.
CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso believes Detroit is already preparing for that scenario. In his latest three-round mock draft, he has the Lions selecting Missouri wide receiver Luther Burden in the first round—a move that could serve as insurance if Williams’ contract situation becomes untenable down the road.
Luther Burden: A Future Playmaker in Detroit?
While Burden’s 2024 season didn’t feature eye-popping numbers—61 receptions for 676 yards and six touchdowns—his talent remains undeniable. Trapasso warns against reading too much into last season’s stats, stating, “Don’t let Burden’s 2024 stats fool you — he’s a premier receiver prospect with upside galore.”
Burden’s 2023 campaign showcased his true potential, as he racked up 1,212 receiving yards and nine touchdowns on 86 catches. Throughout his college career, he amassed 192 receptions, 2,263 yards, and 21 touchdowns, proving himself as one of the most dynamic offensive weapons in college football.
Why Burden Fits in Detroit’s Offense
At 6 feet, 206 pounds, Burden possesses the physicality and route-running polish needed to thrive at the next level. He also posted impressive numbers at the NFL Combine, running a 4.41-second 40-yard dash with a 1.54-second 10-yard split, demonstrating the speed and explosiveness that make him an ideal fit for Detroit’s vertical passing attack.
With St. Brown and Williams already on the roster, Burden wouldn’t be expected to carry the load immediately. Instead, he could develop within the system, gaining experience while providing valuable depth. Should Williams’ price tag become too high in the coming years, the Lions would already have a ready-made replacement in Burden.
Building for Sustained Success
The Lions’ front office has done an excellent job of balancing present-day success with future planning. Selecting Burden wouldn’t mean the end of Williams in Detroit, but it would offer a contingency plan that ensures continuity in the passing game.
The NFL is a business, and difficult decisions are inevitable. By drafting a talented, young playmaker like Burden, Detroit would be taking proactive steps to keep its offense dynamic and dangerous for years to come—regardless of how the contract situations unfold.