Lions Projected to Add 2,200-Yard Receiver Alongside Jared Goff
By all indications, the Detroit Lions boast an impressive roster. Despite their divisional round playoff exit in January against the rising Washington Commanders, they entered the season as a popular Super Bowl pick and should remain strong contenders heading into 2025.
However, no team can afford to become complacent. Quarterback Jared Goff struggled in that postseason defeat, and while the Lions already have two standout receivers in Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, adding another weapon could be beneficial.
In its recent mock draft, CBS Sports projects Detroit selecting Missouri Tigers wide receiver Luther Burden III with the No. 28 overall pick.
“Don’t let Burden’s 2024 stats fool you—he’s a premier receiver prospect with upside galore,” wrote Chris Trapasso.
Burden recorded 61 receptions for 676 yards and six touchdowns in 2024, but his 2023 campaign was even stronger, with 86 catches for 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns. Over three college seasons, he amassed 2,263 receiving yards and 25 total touchdowns.
Missouri Tigers wide receiver Luther Burden III
Missouri Tigers wide receiver Luther Burden III © Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images
He possesses impressive speed, clocking a 4.41-second 40-yard dash at the NFL scouting combine. An NFL.com scouting report highlights his “five-star athleticism and playmaking ability” as well as his “multifaceted run-after-catch talent.”
Detroit led the league in points scored (564) and first downs (410) last season. Adding Burden to an already explosive offense could make the Lions even more dangerous once he acclimates to the professional level.
