Detroit Lions expected to draft WR Luther Burden III

The Detroit Lions had a strong offense in 2024, led by quarterback Jared Goff. Their passing game ranked among the best in the league, with an average of 263.2 yards and 33.2 points per game. As they prepare for the upcoming NFL Draft, there are predictions that the Lions will add even more talent to their roster. A recent mock draft by CBS Sports suggests that the Lions might select wide receiver Luther Burden III from Missouri. He is predicted to be picked 28th overall. This addition would strengthen an already impressive group of receivers that includes Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. In 2024, Burden had 676 receiving yards and six touchdowns, which was below his strong performance in 2023 when he recorded 1,212 yards and nine touchdowns. Despite this dip in numbers, ESPN analyst Mel Kiper ranks him as the fifth-best wide receiver available in this year's draft. Missouri's head coach, Eli Drinkwitz, believes Burden will excel in the NFL. He urges teams not to judge players solely based on recent stats. Drinkwitz stresses the importance of watching game tape to understand a player's potential. He calls Burden a unique talent in college football. The Lions have struggled to find a reliable third receiver in recent years. Burden's arrival could change that. With him alongside St. Brown and Williams, defenses would face tough decisions on who to cover, especially in crucial game situations. If Burden is still available when it’s Detroit's turn in the draft, he could be a valuable pick.