Treylon Burks #16 of the Tennessee Titans
Lions Eyeing Treylon Burks as Offseason Trade Target?
As the Detroit Lions gear up for a potential Super Bowl run, much of the NFL is already in offseason mode, reshuffling coaching staffs and front offices. Among the latest moves, the Tennessee Titans announced the firing of general manager Ran Carthon, signaling a potential roster overhaul in Nashville. For the Lions, this shake-up could open an intriguing opportunity to bolster their receiving corps.
Titans’ Turmoil Could Benefit Detroit
With Carthon’s departure, the Titans’ new leadership may opt for a fresh start, making key players available via trade. One name that stands out is wide receiver Treylon Burks, a former first-round pick who has struggled to find his footing in the NFL.
Burks, just 24 years old, entered the league with high expectations after a standout career at Arkansas, where he recorded 1,104 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns in his final collegiate season. His blend of size, speed, and playmaking ability earned him first-team All-SEC honors and made him one of the most coveted wideouts in the 2022 NFL Draft. However, injuries have hampered his professional career, limiting him to just 27 games over three seasons. His 2024 campaign was particularly disappointing, with only four catches for 34 yards in five appearances.
A Fresh Start in Detroit?
Despite his struggles in Tennessee, Burks could thrive in Detroit’s high-octane offense. The Lions, led by quarterback Jared Goff, boast one of the NFL’s most dynamic passing attacks, ranking second in passing yards per game (263.2). With Allen Robinson and Tim Patrick potentially leaving in free agency, Detroit could use another playmaker alongside Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams.
Burks’ versatility and untapped potential align perfectly with head coach Dan Campbell’s vision for the team. At just 25 years old by March, Burks has ample time to turn his career around, and the Lions might be able to acquire him for a reasonable price if the Titans prioritize draft capital.
TWO PLAYS
TWO INSANE TREYLON BURKS CATCHES
— PFF College (@PFF_College) October 9, 2021
Why the Lions Should Make the Call
Adding Burks wouldn’t just be a depth move; it could elevate Detroit’s offense to another level. His ability to stretch the field and make contested catches complements the Lions’ existing weapons, giving Goff another target to exploit mismatches. Moreover, Campbell’s player-centric approach could help Burks regain confidence and consistency, allowing him to fulfill the promise he showed at Arkansas.
While any trade talks would likely wait until after the postseason, this is the kind of forward-thinking move that could keep the Lions competitive for years to come.
Super Bowl Dreams First, Offseason Moves Later
Before any deals can be made, the Lions are laser-focused on their current goal: winning Super Bowl LIX. As the top seed in the NFC, Detroit enters the playoffs as the betting favorite (+320, per FanDuel Sportsbook) to hoist the Lombardi Trophy.
Still, as the Lions plan for a bright future, targeting Treylon Burks could be a savvy offseason move to ensure their offense remains one of the NFL’s elite.
