Detroit Lions: 5 Under the Radar Free Agent Targets
By Zac Snyder
Rishard Matthews
The Miami Dolphins are unlikely to be able to retain Rishard Matthews because he is looking for a bigger role than they are able to offer. With Calvin Johnson considering retirement and little of consequence at the position other than Golden Tate, the Lions could lure Matthews with the potential of being the team’s number two receiver.
Matthews came on strong this past season before being shut down due to injury, just in time to hit free agency. As noted by Pro Football Focus, Matthews had a rare season in which he excelled in both catch rate and yards per catch:
"Typically, a good receiver will have a good catch rate and low yards-per-catch, or a good yards-per-catch and low catch rate. Matthews is the rare receiver who did both last year. He was the only player in the top 25 in each category among the 119 receivers with the most playing time."
Matthews’ average of 15.4 yards per catch last season compares favorably to Calvin Johnson’s career average of 15.9. They aren’t the same kind of player but the Lions need someone with the ability to stretch the field on occasion.
A thin group of wide receivers on the free agent market could make for bidding wars, so Matthews’ price may ultimately be too rich for the Lions.
Next: A Center