*BREAKING: Detroit Lions Secure Austin Watkins Jr. with 5-Year Deal*
*BREAKING: Detroit Lions Secure Austin Watkins Jr. with 5-Year Deal*
The Detroit Lions have made a significant move to bolster their receiving corps, signing former Cleveland Browns wideout Austin Watkins Jr. to a 5-year contract.
According to sources close to the negotiations, Watkins Jr. has agreed to a lucrative deal worth $47.5 million, with $20 million guaranteed.
The 25-year-old Watkins Jr., a 6’1″ and 207-pound receiver, brings a unique combination of size, speed, and athleticism to the Lions’ offense. He is expected to play a key role in the team’s passing game, alongside quarterback Jared Goff.
“We are thrilled to add Austin to our roster,” said Lions general manager, Brad Holmes. “He is a talented young receiver who fits our team’s vision and culture. We believe he will be a valuable contributor to our offense and help us achieve our goals.”
Watkins Jr., a former undrafted free agent, has spent the past two seasons with the Cleveland Browns, where he appeared in 23 games and recorded 34 receptions for 455 yards and two touchdowns.
Despite his relatively limited playing time, Watkins Jr. has shown flashes of brilliance, demonstrating his ability to make big plays down the field and in traffic.
The signing of Watkins Jr. marks the latest move in the Lions’ efforts to revamp their offense and surround Goff with more talent. The team has also added veteran receiver DJ Chark and tight end James Mitchell through free agency.
With Watkins Jr. on board, the Lions’ receiving corps now boasts a mix of experience, speed, and size, which should provide Goff with a more diverse array of targets.
The Lions will begin training camp in late July, and Watkins Jr. is expected to be a full participant as he looks to establish himself as a key contributor to the team’s offense.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Detroit Lions’ offseason moves and their preparations for the upcoming season!