Lions Pass Catcher as Good as Gone Entering August

Jul 31, 2025; Canton, Ohio, USA;  Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) warms up before the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Jul 31, 2025; Canton, Ohio, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) warms up before the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images | Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

The Detroit Lions have the perfect group of receivers to run one of the league's most lethal offenses. While the Lions have no open spots at the top of their rotation, the depth spots are very much up for grabs. One impressive early story has been Georgia product Dominic Lovett. Despite coming from a top school, the prospect wasn't highly regarded. Still, the Lions took a risk on the final day of the draft, and thus far it appears to have paid off. One downside of this is that with every surprising rise comes an inevitable lost spot.

For the Lions, this is likely going to be Ronnie Bell. The receiver was signed early in the 2025 offseason to a future/reserve contract. This was after Bell spent the first two years of his career with the San Francisco 49ers. The receiver made an early impression, catching touchdowns despite filling a reserve role.

However, this was offset by a fumble and declining production the next season. If the 49ers' stellar offense cannot find a fit, it seems very likely the league is moving on. This is going to prove to be the case with Detroit and Bell.

The Lions Appear Likely to Cut Receiver Ronnie Bell

Bell seems to have his possible fit stolen by Lovett, who is already catching fan attention. Bell simply is quickly free falling through the expected options to make the Lions roster. With that said, it is important to note how early we are in the year. Preseason action has just kicked off, and we are weeks away from watching a meaningful game. Bell is going to be given every chance to change minds and make plays in preseason action.

It is what must happen to change what now appears to be an inevitable roster cut. Detroit's starters remain Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Tim Patrick. It seems Kalif Raymond, Isaac TeSlaa, and Dominic Lovett are the primary backup options. There simply isn't an open spot unless Bell can make an impressive preseason run. Detroit has an added pressure as well of dealing with lofty expectations.

Despite losing OC Ben Johnson, Detroit's offense is still expected to be among the league's top units. This is based on the impact of Jared Goff and a wealth of skill players. All this leaves a sense of urgency that demands consistently searching for upgrades. Lovett appears to be just that and is quickly pushing Bell off the Lions roster.

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