Current mock drafts suggest clear directions for the Detroit Lions’ No. 28 pick next month, with most analysts predicting an edge rusher or offensive lineman to fill apparent needs.
Those projections make sense, but general manager Brad Holmes has repeatedly emphasized that Detroit does not draft based purely on needs—an approach that has worked well before, such as selecting Jahmyr Gibbs 12th overall despite signing David Montgomery. Roster needs evolve quickly, and drafting solely based on them can be risky.
If the Lions stay at pick 28, they will have plenty of options depending on how the board falls. The debate between selecting the best player available or addressing a need was a key topic on the latest episode of the “Detroit Lions Podcast,” particularly regarding the possibility of taking a wide receiver if he’s the top prospect left.
A looming decision on extending Jameson Williams’ contract makes the Lions’ wide receiver depth a topic of discussion. Even with Tim Patrick returning on a one-year deal, additional talent at the position remains a consideration.
During the podcast, co-host Russell Brown highlighted Missouri wideout Luther Burden, whose stock has dropped after a disappointing final college season.
“I see his skill set and think he’s among the 15 best players in this draft,” Brown said. “To me, he’s probably the third-best receiver available. Some people in our field even believe he’s the best receiver in the class.”
Brown acknowledged concerns about Burden’s work ethic but largely dismissed them.
Co-host Scott Bischoff reflected on how, just a year ago, the idea of the Lions drafting Burden would have been surprising, implying that something drastic must have happened for Detroit to be in a position to select him.
Bischoff pointed out that most of Burden’s college receptions came on short routes and questioned whether he might overlap with Amon-Ra St. Brown, who is sometimes labeled as a slot receiver. He compared Burden (6-foot, 205 pounds) to Chicago Bears wideout D.J. Moore.
Brown argued that Burden’s versatility could allow the Lions to manufacture touches for him, complementing the team’s existing offensive weapons.
For the full discussion on wide receiver prospects, including Burden, check out Brown and Bischoff’s full conversation below.
Burden had a standout 2023 season for Missouri, posting 86 catches for 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns. However, his production dipped last season to 61 receptions for 676 yards and six touchdowns, despite no quarterback change—though Brady Cook (a projected Day 3 draft pick) did not perform as well.
On March 19, CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso mocked Burden to the Lions at No. 28 in an earlier projection.
More recent mock drafts this week, including those from Matt Bitoni of Football Guys and Rob Gregson of AtoZ Sports, also have Detroit selecting Burden with their first-round pick.
While wide receiver remains an under-the-radar—or not-so-hidden—need for Detroit, selecting one at No. 28 would raise eyebrows. However, it’s a realistic option, and Burden presents an intriguing possibility to strengthen the position group.