The Detroit Lions are facing a critical challenge at wide receiver-and it couldn’t come at a worse time. With Amon-Ra St.
Brown nursing an ankle injury and Kalif Raymond also banged up, Detroit’s once-solid receiving corps is suddenly looking thin. As the Lions push toward a potential playoff berth, they may need to act fast.
And with veteran wideout Adam Thielen unexpectedly hitting waivers, the timing might just work in their favor.
Amon-Ra St. Brown’s Injury: A Tough Break for a Tough Player
Let’s start with the Lions’ biggest concern: Amon-Ra St. Brown.
The standout receiver suffered a low-ankle sprain during Thursday’s game, and while the diagnosis could’ve been worse, it’s still a blow. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, St.
Brown is considered week-to-week and is not expected to land on injured reserve-a silver lining for Detroit.
Head coach Dan Campbell confirmed the news, saying, “That’s the good news,” but added that it could still sideline St. Brown for “a week or two maybe, if we’re lucky.” That’s not exactly reassuring for a team currently sitting just outside the NFC playoff picture.
The Lions enter Week 14 in the No. 8 seed-one spot shy of a postseason berth-and third in the NFC North. Every game from here on out is essentially a must-win, and losing their top offensive weapon, even temporarily, is a major hurdle.
Adam Thielen Hits Waivers: A Timely Opportunity?
Enter Adam Thielen. The longtime Viking and one of the most respected wideouts of the past decade is now on waivers after requesting his release from Minnesota. The team granted his wish, citing his desire for a bigger role in what he’s indicated will be his final NFL season.
Thielen’s production this year has been minimal-just eight catches for 69 yards over 11 games-but context matters. He played only 29% of Minnesota’s offensive snaps, and it’s clear he was never truly integrated into the Vikings’ game plan after being traded from Carolina in August.
Still, this is a guy who put up 615 yards in just 10 games last season with the Panthers. That’s not ancient history.
At 35, Thielen may not be the explosive threat he once was, but he’s savvy, reliable, and knows how to get open. He also brings playoff experience and leadership-two things that could be invaluable in Detroit’s locker room right now.
Why the Lions Should Make a Move
Let’s be clear: the Lions can’t just sign Thielen outright. He’ll have to clear waivers first, and there’s no guarantee Detroit will get a shot. But they should absolutely put in a claim.
With St. Brown’s status uncertain and Raymond also dealing with injury, Detroit is suddenly thin behind Jameson Williams.
And while Williams has shown flashes, he’s still developing. Adding a veteran like Thielen could stabilize the group and give quarterback Jared Goff a reliable target in critical moments.
Thielen’s versatility is another plus. He’s played nearly a 50-50 split between the slot and outside throughout his career, so even if St.
Brown returns soon, Thielen wouldn’t be relegated to the bench. He could slide into multiple spots and help keep the offense humming.
The Bottom Line
This isn’t about adding a superstar-it’s about adding a steady hand at a time when the Lions desperately need one. Adam Thielen won’t replace Amon-Ra St.
Brown, but he can help bridge the gap. And in a playoff race this tight, every edge matters.
Detroit has built a tough, resilient team under Dan Campbell, and they’ve come too far to let injuries derail their momentum. If Thielen is available, the Lions should make the call.