Over the weekend, the Detroit Lions improved their season record to 13-2, but they still need to win the NFC North and earn a first-round bye. The NFC seeding will probably be decided by their matchup with the Vikings in Week 18. The Lions are currently +390 favourites to win the Super Bowl, with the Chiefs and Bills coming in second and third, respectively, at +450 and +470. If the Lions win the NFC, there’s a very good possibility they’ll play one of these teams in the Super Bowl.
The Lions must thus exploit every advantage they have over these teams, including the free-agent market. In order to improve its wide receiver corps and keep their competitors, specifically the Chiefs, from bolstering their squad, Detroit could go to a number of free agents. Odell Beckham Jr. is one well-known name on the market. The Miami Dolphins dismissed the seasoned pass-catcher last week, and no one claimed him. Like the Los Angeles Rams a few seasons ago, he is still looking for his next chance to sign with a Super Bowl contender.
Without a doubt, the Lions need another capable wide receiver. Jameson Williams does enough, and Amon-Ra St. Brown remains one of the game’s top receivers. The remainder of the WR rotation, though, is far from ideal. As a WR3 deep in the postseason, Tim Patrick is difficult to trust, despite being a charming comeback story.
The Chiefs can’t let their opponents add to their roster, which is as important as bolstering their own offence. After WR Justin Watson struggled greatly in Week 16, the Chiefs may be interested in OBJ. Beckham wasn’t good for the Dolphins this season, but he didn’t get many opportunities. He recorded 35 catches for 565 yards and three touchdowns with the Ravens last season.
This is the closest the Lions have come to winning a Super Bowl in a long time. They must ensure that no possibility is overlooked. They should give it careful thought if taking a chance on Beckham Jr. could provide them a slight advantage over their rivals in the postseason.