The Detroit Lions have been one of the most formidable teams in the NFL this season, as Dan Campbell’s squad is 13-2 and has won 12 of their last 13 games. Detroit picked up a blowout road victory over the Chicago Bears in Week 16 and will travel to Levi’s Stadium to square off against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football in Week 17.
The Lions’ offense has been tremendous in 2024, as the unit leads the league in points per game with 32.9 and has prolific passing and rushing attacks. Though Ben Johnson’s unit is one of the most dynamic groups in the league, the offense still has some glaring weaknesses, primarily at wide receiver.
Outside of Amon-Ra St.Brown and Jameson Williams, the Lions lack high-end talent and production at receiver. Tim Patrick has shown some promise, including a two-touchdown game versus the Green Bay Packers in Week 14, but the veteran isn’t a reliable WR3.
General manager Brad Holmes should look to add another playmaker to the offense this offseason, and Fox Sports’ Jason McIntyre predicts Detroit will select Ohio State wide receiver Emeka Egbuka in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
“A Buckeye headed to Michigan? Tough to swallow, but I like the idea of the Lions getting depth at WR. Jameson Williams and Tim Patrick were solid this season, but Egbuka combines both of their strengths (speed and route running).”
Egbuka has been a productive player for the Buckeyes in 2024, totaling 65 catches for 824 yards and nine touchdowns in 13 games. The senior out of Steilacoom, Washington posted his best collegiate season came in 2022 when he hauled in 74 receptions for 1,151 yards and ten touchdowns.
Egbuka has played most of his snaps in the slot in college, but the 22-year-old also has experience playing on the outside. Pairing the versatile Buckeye with St.Brown and Williams would give Detroit one of the most exhilarating and complete wide receiver trios in the NFL.
Wide receiver isn’t a pressing need for the Lions, but if Emeka Egbuka is on the board when Detroit is on the clock late in Round 1, Brad Holmes should consider taking the Ohio State standout.
