Detroit Lions’ 2018 draft needs evident just six games into 2017 season
By Zac Snyder
Wide Receiver
Forget the Matt Millen jokes; the Lions need a wide receiver. Adding Kenny Golladay in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft looks like a good start but it is just a start.
The Lions have multiple issue on offense right now but one is a lack of separation ability from their current group of receivers. Faced with pressure and a need to get rid of the ball, Matthew Stafford all too often has nothing but covered receivers to look at before he has to scramble, improvise, throw the ball away or take a sack.
Jim Bob Cooter isn’t doing his offense any favors but it feels like the Lions have a bunch of second or third receivers while lacking a real number one. There just isn’t a guy that can be counted on to come up with a big play in the passing game when they really need one.
Golden Tate is a fine receiver and his production should be well appreciated. Marvin Jones will occasionally come up with a big pass down field or a highlight catch. But is either really the kind of go-to guy every good offense needs?
Jones was one of the marquee signings of Bob Quinn’s first crop of free agents but hasn’t lived up to the hype. Joining the Lions in the wake of Calvin Johnson‘s retirement may have led to unreasonable expectations but the Lions may feel they can get a better bang for their buck by moving on sooner than later. Tate is only signed through next season, although the Lions would be wise to treat him like they treated Glover Quin last summer.
Regardless of your thoughts of the top of the wide receiver depth chart, there is still room to add to bump a guy like Jared Abbrederis off. Outside of Kenny Golladay, the long-term picture at wide receiver is murky at best. Using a 2018 draft pick on the position is an option to get some help right away and for the future.