The Detroit Lions surprised many draft analysts when they used two third-round picks to grab wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa, a player most projected as a Day 3 selection. TeSlaa, who had just 28 catches at Arkansas last season, raised some eyebrows — but new reporting gives insight into why Detroit was so high on him.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, TeSlaa’s performance at both the Hula Bowl and Senior Bowl helped vault him up draft boards. Not only did he impress in those showcase games, but he ran a blazing 4.43-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, grabbing the attention of teams like the Lions, Saints, and Bills. Detroit, eager to add depth behind Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, ultimately made the aggressive move to land him.
While some have questioned his college production, the Lions saw a player with work ethic, personality, and untapped potential — so much so that GM Brad Holmes reportedly called TeSlaa his favorite pick in the draft. With a more stable quarterback situation in Detroit, the team believes TeSlaa has the tools to grow into a real contributor.
Insider: Hula Bowl Hero Isaac TeSlaa Became Lions’ Draft Crush
