The Detroit Lions are moving through the offseason workout program with Week 2 of OTAs up next.
With a new year comes new opportunity for every player on the Lions’ roster. Which Lion could be poised for a breakout season? I asked the Detroitlions.com crew, and here’s what they had to say:
Tim Twentyman: Wide receiver Jameson Williams
With Josh Reynolds signing with Denver in free agency, Williams has a chance to step into the No. 2 role behind Amon-Ra St. Brown and see a significant uptick in his targets and playmaking opportunities.
Williams came on strong at the end of the year, capped off by a two-touchdown performance in the loss to San Francisco in the NFC Championship Game. He’s put in the work this offseason and has a chance to be a big-time playmaker in Ben Johnson’s offense in his third season.
Mike O’Hara: Running back Jahmyr Gibbs
Gibbs had a good rookie season. He is primed to take it up a notch to become a go-to running back who is the player the Lions look at in all situations.
I think he can become a great player for the Lions.
Dannie Rogers: Wide receiver Jameson Williams
Williams is due for a big season in Year 3. We’ve seen glimpses of his explosive downfield plays, and we’ve seen the growth he’s made on the field and when it comes to building rapport with this offense and quarterback Jared Goff.
I think Jamo at least doubles his production this year and gets closer to that 1,000 yard receiving mark in 2024.
Editor’s Pick: Defensive back Brian Branch
Last year Branch started his rookie season off with a pick-six of Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes in the NFL’s season opener. I expect to see more of those splash plays from Branch in Year 2.
The Lions spent considerable free agent, trade and draft resources on the secondary which should provide more support to free up Branch to make more plays.
