Detroit Lions Offseason Prediction: Wide Receivers
By Erik Schlitt
Free Agent Prediction
Anquan Boldin retires, Andre Roberts departs, and the Lions sign Kendall Wright. Wright would be an ideal addition to the wide receiver group, giving them options in three receiver sets. He won’t take Boldin’s role (that should go to Eric Ebron) but he would see some of his snaps and targets.
This would be an opportunity for Wright to prove to the NFL that he’s still the player they thought he would be coming out of Baylor. I would expect both Wright and Bob Quinn to want to do a short deal (one or two years) so that they could reevaluate his value sooner rather than later.
Draft Prediction
The Lions draft Jehu Chesson in the 7th round. While he wouldn’t be guaranteed a roster spot as a late round pick, he would have more than one way to earn a spot. While likely not ready to be a fourth receiver out of the gate, he could force Bob Quinn to keep five receivers because of his kick return abilities. If he does end up on the practice squad, that would also have its upside, as he would get a chance to try to reclaim his 2015 mojo.
Next: Offseason Prediction Tight Ends
As the draft season progresses, more players will present themselves as options and scheme fits for the Lions, so make sure you are checking back at DetroitJockCity.com for future articles. You can also follow me on Twitter (@erikschlitt) for continuing analysis.