The Detroit Lions head into NFL free agency with a considerable amount of cap space, positioning them among the teams with the most financial flexibility. However, they may face the task of potentially replacing several key starters, including wide receiver Josh Reynolds.
On February 19, Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine speculated that Reynolds could find a potential fit with either the Baltimore Ravens or the Buffalo Bills.
“There’s hardly a team in the NFL that wouldn’t benefit from adding another playmaker to their receiving unit,” Ballentine noted. “While some teams may be seeking a primary receiving option in free agency, most could use a player capable of making plays downfield.”
In the 2023 season, Reynolds recorded 40 receptions, 608 receiving yards, and 5 touchdowns across 17 games, with 13 starts, ranking second among Lions wide receivers in the major receiving categories. He also led the team with an average of 15.2 yards per catch.
There’s a case to be made for the Lions re-signing Reynolds, although they may also explore younger options as potential upgrades.
“From his standpoint, the idea of returning for another season in Detroit may be appealing, but at 28 years old and entering his eighth NFL season, Reynolds might consider seeking a longer-term deal elsewhere for greater financial security,” noted SB Nation’s Pride of Detroit’s Morgan Cannon.
The possibility of Reynolds departing in NFL free agency has been a topic of debate among Lions writers. SI.com’s All Lions’ Vito Chirco advocates for Reynolds’ return to Detroit for the 2024 season, suggesting he would be an ideal addition to the team’s wide receiver depth chart.
Expanding on that idea, if I were Brad Holmes, I would prioritize acquiring a receiver of No. 2 caliber during this offseason. This would allow Jameson Williams to slot in as the team’s No. 3 wideout, with Reynolds assuming the No. 4 position.
However, being designated as the team’s No. 4 receiver might place Reynolds in an unfamiliar situation. Depth receivers often contribute on special teams, a role Reynolds hasn’t consistently played since 2019.
Indeed, as the team’s No. 4 receiver, Reynolds could also serve as a mentor to younger players. With Jameson Williams poised for a more significant role in 2024, the Lions could opt to draft another young receiver, which would elevate Williams to the No. 2 spot on the depth chart.
However, it’s unlikely that the Lions will pursue additional wide receiver signings in free agency, given their other pressing needs such as addressing offensive guard positions, edge rusher, and cornerback. Additionally, they may prioritize offering contract extensions to key players like quarterback Jared Goff and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown.
If the Lions decide to re-sign Reynolds and he assumes the No. 4 receiver role, he could play a dual role as a mentor to both Williams and potentially another cost-effective receiver, such as a rookie. This setup could provide valuable guidance and support to the younger members of the receiving corps while maximizing the team’s resources and roster depth.
Estimating Reynolds’ upcoming NFL contract.
Reynolds inked a notably budget-friendly 2-year, $6 million contract with the Lions upon re-signing two years ago. While he remains a valuable and cost-effective veteran receiving option, it’s anticipated that his price tag will rise.
According to projections from Spotrac, Reynolds’ market value is anticipated to more than double compared to two years ago. Spotrac forecasts that Reynolds could sign a 2-year deal worth $14.1 million this offseason.
The Lions possess the cap flexibility to facilitate such a deal, particularly if it follows a front-loaded structure akin to his previous contract. However, the key consideration remains whether the Lions will prioritize retaining Reynolds over bolstering their offensive line and defensive positions in free agency.
Over his seven NFL seasons, Reynolds has accumulated 220 receptions, 2,933 receiving yards, and 19 touchdowns, boasting an average of 13.3 yards per catch. Additionally, Reynolds has had a consistent on-field connection with Jared Goff, their partnership spanning at least part of every season since 2017.
