The Detroit Lions are expected to go into the 2022-2023 season with one of the top offenses in the National Football League. Rookie tight end Sam LaPorta signed with Detroit recently, and brings an added run-after-the-catch element to the offense than has been lacking.
Running backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs are expected to bring speed and playmaking ability to the offensive backfield, in hopes of picking up where D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams left off last season.
For the Lions to take the next step and contend for a Super Bowl, the receiving room could use a bit of an upgrade. Detroit has Amon-Ra St. Brown at the position, and deep threat Jameson Williams is expected to return mid-season. Marvin Jones, a free agent signee from the Jacksonville Jaguars, is already meshing well with Goff in the deep passing game.
Meanwhile, Jared Goff and the Lions’ receivers could use a little help, especially on intermediate routes. One player who could take the Lions’ offense from good to great is Hunter Renfrow, the former Clemson Tigers receiver who has starred for the Las Vegas Raiders in recent years.
Renfrow was the subject of a trade proposal from the website Heavy on Lions recently, as the idea of a trade was floated out.
In 2021, Renfrow dominated to the tune of 103 receptions to go along with 1,038 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. Renfrow signed a contract worth $32 million over two years — and promptly saw his production drop precipitously.
Renfrow caught 36 balls for 330 yards and two touchdowns last season for Las Vegas. The stats were not indicative of his talent, however.
Renfrow is still just 27 years old, and has been praised by Raiders teammates in recent weeks. If the Lions are to swing a deal for Renfro, it could be a positive move for both teams.
“Las Vegas signed receivers Jakobi Myers and Deandre Carter this offseason, which likely buries Renfrow deeper on the depth chart,” wrote Jack Gentry of A to Z Sports.
“With just one year left on his contract, the Lions should be able to pry him away from the Raiders without being forced to give up a high draft pick.
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So, what do you think? Should the Lions add another receiver like Renfrow to help offset the suspension of Jameson Williams? Let us know what you think on our Facebook page here.
