The Detroit Lions have made significant defensive moves this summer, strengthening their secondary and adding size to their defensive line.
According to one insider, the organization could next focus on offensive, signing wide receiver K.J. Osborn after a four-year tenure with the Minnesota Vikings. Russell Brown of USA Today’s Lions Wire identified Osborn as one of four remaining free agents who could be of interest to the Lions, suggesting that he would be a strong fit in Detroit.
“One receiver who could have an interest in Detroit is K.J. Osborn,” Brown stated in an email. “He’s from Ypsilanti, Michigan, and returning home is probably an option. In the last three seasons, he has 158 receptions for 1,845 yards and 15 touchdowns. Oh, and he’s also sure-handed. He’s only had nine career drops (3.6% drop rate).
Lions Face Decision in Wide Receiving Corps.
Brown noted that any decision on Osborn in Detroit could be contingent on what the team chooses with wide receiver Josh Reynolds, who is also a free agency. While Reynolds became a significant component of the Lions’ attack in 2023, totaling 40 receptions for 608 yards and five touchdowns, Brown intimated that there may be room to keep Reynolds while acquiring Osborn.
“It’ll be interesting to see if the Lions bring back wide receiver Josh Reynolds or not,” he said. “Even if they do, I’d imagine it would be a good deal for one or two years. With that, they should still be looking for another receiver.
Brown also said that Osborn could be the most cost-effective addition.
“With his market value projected to be $7.5 million (per Spotrac), he’d be a cheaper and safer option than a player such as Mike Williams,” Brown wrote in a blog post. “You could make a case that he’d be a great compliment to Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams and Sam LaPorta.”
The Lions may face competition for Osborn, with a number of other clubs, including the Buffalo Bills, reportedly interested. Osborn grew up in Michigan but attended the University of Buffalo.
