Detroit Lions wide receiver Josh Reynolds (8) celebrates a touchdown reception against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second quarter of the NFL divisional round playoff game at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024.
ALLEN PARK — Brad Holmes expressed satisfaction in securing nearly all of his targeted signings for the Detroit Lions during the recent NFL free agency period, except for one notable exception.
However, that exception has now slipped away, as per multiple national reports indicating that Josh Reynolds has agreed to a two-year contract with the Denver Broncos, valued at up to $14 million. Reynolds, a seasoned receiver, had initially joined the Lions midway through the first season under Holmes and Dan Campbell’s leadership in 2021.
Reynolds reunited with Jared Goff in Detroit, playing a pivotal role in the team’s rebuilding efforts over the past two-plus years. Despite experiencing a couple of challenging drops in the NFC title game a few months ago, Reynolds remained a significant contributor to the team.
In the 2023 season, the 29-year-old recorded 40 receptions for 608 yards and five touchdowns, showcasing his value within one of the league’s top offenses.
Throughout his tenure in Detroit, Reynolds accumulated 97 catches for 1,393 yards and 10 touchdowns across 38 games. The Lions were keen on retaining Reynolds, particularly due to the absence of an outside, vertical wide receiver.
Although they successfully re-signed Donovan Peoples-Jones, Reynolds ultimately opted for the Baltimore Ravens before ultimately settling with the Broncos under the helm of Sean Payton.
“At the league’s annual meetings, Lions general manager Holmes informed local reporters that there are still ongoing discussions regarding free agency targets, with Josh Reynolds being a key figure in their original plans.
Despite Reynolds’ departure, the Lions boast a roster of returning wide receivers including Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Kalif Raymond, Antoine Green, and Donovan Peoples-Jones. In anticipation of the NFL Draft, the Lions remain a popular choice for first-round wide receiver selections.
St. Brown is poised for a significant contract extension, recognized for his consistent performance, while Williams brings elite speed with high expectations for his third year. However, the departure of Reynolds highlights the team’s need for a larger, vertical wide receiver in Ben Johnson’s offensive scheme. Although Peoples-Jones possesses the size and speed required, his production has been inconsistent since his impressive 2022 season.
Having joined the Lions from the Cleveland Browns at the recent trade deadline, Peoples-Jones has shown glimpses of promise with clutch receptions on critical downs. Meanwhile, Reynolds embarks on a new chapter with the Denver Broncos, entering an environment without a confirmed starting quarterback.
The Broncos’ recent trade of Jerry Jeudy intensifies competition among receivers including Reynolds, Courtland Sutton, Marvin Mims, Tim Patrick, and Lil’Jordan Humphrey for top spots in the lineup.”
