The Detroit Lions didn’t get the Thanksgiving result they wanted, but one unexpected bright spot came from rookie wideout Isaac TeSlaa, who made the most of every snap. With injuries piling up and Amon-Ra St. Brown leaving the game early, Detroit needed someone—anyone—to step up. TeSlaa took that personally.
Throughout the matchup, the young receiver played with a chip on his shoulder, fighting for tough catches, blocking hard on the perimeter, and showing the coaching staff that he’s more than just depth. On a day when the offense struggled to find rhythm, his energy stood out like a spark the team desperately needed.
Dan Campbell preaches grit, hunger, and accountability. TeSlaa delivered all three. His performance felt like a message: “Give me a bigger role—I’m ready.” With Detroit facing a razor-thin playoff path and uncertainty at wide receiver, Campbell may have no choice but to reward the rookie for proving he belongs on the field when things get tough.
Thanksgiving didn’t bring a win, but it might’ve uncovered a new contributor at exactly the right time.
