The Lions Should Target This Underappreciated Free Agent Wide Receiver as a Hidden Gem
The Detroit Lions are on the rise, and after an impressive 2023 campaign, they enter the 2024 offseason with high expectations. Head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes have built a formidable roster, but one position that could use reinforcements is the wide receiver corps. While Amon-Ra St. Brown has cemented himself as the team’s No. 1 target and Jameson Williams continues to develop, the Lions would benefit from adding another reliable pass-catcher.
Instead of splurging on high-priced free agents or relying solely on the draft, Detroit could find value in an overlooked wide receiver who has the potential to thrive in the right system. One such hidden gem in free agency is Darius Slayton. The former New York Giants wideout has consistently demonstrated playmaking ability, yet he remains underappreciated on the open market. Here’s why the Lions should target Slayton as a cost-effective solution to enhance their passing attack.
Darius Slayton: An Underrated Playmaker
Darius Slayton entered the NFL as a fifth-round pick (171st overall) by the New York Giants in the 2019 NFL Draft. Despite his late-round status, Slayton quickly emerged as a key contributor for the Giants. In his rookie season, he recorded 48 receptions for 740 yards and eight touchdowns, showcasing his ability to stretch the field with his speed and vertical threat.
Over the next several seasons, Slayton continued to be a productive target, despite playing in a struggling Giants offense that lacked consistency at quarterback. His numbers fluctuated due to factors beyond his control, such as injuries, offensive line issues, and frequent coaching changes. Still, Slayton proved that he could be a reliable deep threat and a player capable of making contested catches.
In 2023, Slayton posted 50 receptions for 770 yards and four touchdowns. While those numbers don’t leap off the page, they demonstrate his reliability in an offense that lacked an elite quarterback. Additionally, his career average of over 15 yards per reception underscores his ability to stretch defenses, something that could greatly benefit the Lions.
How Slayton Fits in Detroit’s Offense
1. Deep Threat Ability
The Lions’ offense, led by quarterback Jared Goff, thrives on efficiency and balance. St. Brown is a dynamic slot receiver with exceptional route-running skills and YAC (yards after catch) ability. Meanwhile, Jameson Williams is a speedster with immense potential but remains largely unproven due to injuries and a slow start to his career.
Adding Slayton would provide the Lions with another reliable deep threat, forcing defenses to account for multiple vertical playmakers. With his 4.39-second 40-yard dash speed, Slayton can take the top off defenses and create explosive plays down the field. This would open up opportunities for St. Brown and tight end Sam LaPorta in the short-to-intermediate passing game.
2. Complementary Skill Set
Slayton’s ability to win on the outside complements the existing talent in Detroit’s receiving corps. Unlike St. Brown, who thrives in the slot, and Williams, who is still developing as a route-runner, Slayton has a proven track record of success against boundary corners. He has the size (6’1”, 194 lbs) and athleticism to win jump-ball situations, making him a reliable target in contested-catch scenarios.
Additionally, Slayton’s presence would prevent defenses from focusing all their attention on St. Brown. Opposing teams would have to respect Slayton’s ability to win downfield, which would prevent safeties from creeping up to defend the run game.
3. Cost-Effective Addition
One of the biggest advantages of targeting Slayton is that he won’t command the same price tag as marquee free-agent receivers like Tee Higgins or Michael Pittman Jr. The Lions are in a favorable salary cap position, but they must allocate resources wisely to address other needs, including bolstering their defense.
Slayton’s contract projections suggest that he could be signed on a reasonable two- or three-year deal, giving Detroit a productive veteran presence without breaking the bank. This allows the front office to retain key players and make other necessary moves while still improving the wide receiver position.
4. Experience and Durability
Despite playing in a physically demanding division, Slayton has maintained relatively good health throughout his career. He has played at least 13 games in each of his five NFL seasons, demonstrating his durability. This is crucial for the Lions, as injuries have hindered their receiving corps in recent years.
Additionally, Slayton’s experience playing in multiple offensive systems means he can quickly adapt to Detroit’s playbook. His versatility would allow him to contribute immediately, making him a valuable asset as the team aims to build on its recent success.
Potential Impact on the Lions’ Offense
1. Enhancing the Play-Action Game
The Lions boast one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, and their strong running game is a key component of their success. By adding Slayton, Detroit could further capitalize on its play-action passing attack. Goff has excelled in play-action situations, and having a legitimate deep threat like Slayton would make this aspect of the offense even more dangerous.
With defenses forced to respect Slayton’s ability to stretch the field, opposing safeties would have to think twice before creeping up to stop the run. This would create more space for intermediate routes, benefiting players like St. Brown, LaPorta, and running back Jahmyr Gibbs in the passing game.
2. Creating More Red Zone Opportunities
While the Lions’ offense has been efficient, they could improve their red zone efficiency. Slayton’s size and ability to win contested catches would provide Goff with another reliable option near the goal line. This would alleviate some of the pressure on St. Brown and LaPorta, who have been the primary red zone targets.
By diversifying their passing attack, the Lions would become even more difficult to defend in scoring situations, ultimately leading to more points on the board.
Why Slayton Has Been Overlooked
Despite his consistent production, Slayton has remained underappreciated in league circles. Several factors contribute to this:
- Playing in a Struggling Offense: The Giants’ offensive struggles in recent years have overshadowed individual performances. With a revolving door at quarterback and an inconsistent offensive line, Slayton never had the opportunity to play in a high-powered system.
- Lack of National Recognition: Unlike some of his peers, Slayton hasn’t received the media attention that often comes with playing for a Super Bowl contender.
- Free-Agent Market Trends: The 2024 free-agent class features several high-profile receivers, leading to Slayton being overlooked in favor of bigger names.
However, smart teams recognize value where others do not. The Lions have an opportunity to capitalize on this by securing a productive player at a reasonable price.
Final Thoughts: A Low-Risk, High-Reward Signing
Darius Slayton is the type of under-the-radar free agent who could thrive in the right situation. With his speed, playmaking ability, and experience, he would be an excellent addition to the Lions’ receiving corps. His skill set perfectly complements the team’s offensive scheme, and his affordability makes him an appealing target in free agency.
By signing Slayton, the Lions would add depth, explosiveness, and reliability to their passing attack—all without overspending. As Detroit aims to solidify its status as a top contender in the NFC, making smart, cost-effective moves like this could be the key to sustained success.
For a team looking to take the next step toward a deep playoff run, targeting an underappreciated gem like Darius Slayton could prove to be a difference-making decision.