The Detroit Lions boast one of the NFL’s most explosive air attacks, but could changes be coming to their receiving corps? According to a projection from WalterFootball, the Lions could be setting their sights on Oklahoma wideout Deion Burks in the 2026 NFL Draft — a move that might hint at life beyond Jameson Williams.
Williams is still under contract through 2025, and the Lions have picked up his fifth-year option for 2026. But with Amon-Ra St. Brown locked in as the team’s top target and Williams still working to establish consistency, Detroit could be exploring their options. Williams has had moments of brilliance, but injuries and off-field concerns have held him back from fully living up to his first-round billing.
Enter Deion Burks, a Michigan native who began his college career at Purdue before transferring to Oklahoma. While he played in only five games in 2024 due to injury, he flashed serious potential with 31 catches, 245 yards, and three touchdowns. Scouts are high on his speed and ability to make plays after the catch — qualities that could make him an ideal fit in Detroit’s offense.
With offensive coordinator John Morton now leading the attack after Ben Johnson’s departure, adding a dynamic pass-catcher like Burks might be more about system continuity and depth than replacing anyone outright. But if Burks has a strong 2025 season, don’t be surprised if Detroit makes a move to bring him home in next year’s draft.
Bottom line: The Lions aren’t in a rush to move on from Williams, but they’re smartly keeping an eye on the future — and Burks could be part of it.
Lions Eyeing Deion Burks as Potential Successor to Jameson Williams
