if the Detroit Lions use their first-round pick to address their biggest need, without a doubt, the organization will target a player to help in pass defense. But NFL mock draft experts aren’t ruling out the Lions adding another offensive weapon — one such as LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr.

The Bleacher Report NFL scouting department predicted in its latest mock draft on February 12 that the Lions will target Thomas to replace Josh Reynolds.

A seven-year veteran, Reynolds is an unrestricted free agent in March.

“Reynolds did not provide a good last impression as he enters free agency,” the BR staff wrote. “Instead, he can be replaced with a more talented and younger deep threat with a nose for the end zone in LSU’s Brian Thomas Jr.”

BR scout Derrik Klassen added that “Detroit’s offense is already good. But imagine replacing Josh Reynolds’ snaps with a fast, explosive presence who still has room to grow as a player.”

Thomas exploded on the stat sheet as a junior at LSU. In 13 games, he posted 68 catches for 1,177 yards and 17 touchdowns. Thomas averaged 17.3 yards per reception.

In his first two college seasons combined, Thomas registered 59 receptions, 720 yards and 17 touchdowns.

Why Brian Thomas Jr. Could Replace Josh Reynolds

Reynolds provided serviceable production as Detroit’s No. 2 wide receiver in 2023. In 17 games, he had 40 catches for 608 yards, averaging a team-high 15.2 yards per catch. He also had 5 touchdowns.

That stat line is not abnormally high, especially for a starting receiver in the NFL’s No. 2 passing offense. But the Lions targeted rookie tight end Sam LaPorta and first-year running back Jahmyr Gibbs combined for 191 targets in 2023.