To add further depth to their wide receiving core, the Lions acquired Mike Thomas from the Jacksonville Jaguars for an undisclosed draft pick.
That draft pick is believed to be a mid rounder according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.
Sounds like the Lions gave up a mid-round pick in the deal.
— Dave Birkett (@davebirkett) October 30, 2012
In seven games this season for the Jaguars, Thomas has 13 catches for 80 yards. In addition to this the Lions also announced the release of CB Justin Miller.
So what does this move mean for the Lions who recently lost No. 2 guy Nate Burleson for the season?
Essentially it appears that the Lions didn’t feel very comfortable with just Titus Young and Ryan Broyles behind starter Calvin Johnson. Furthermore you could probably expect that Thomas competes with Broyles for that slot role.
Now despite the low key move here, Thomas has shown some success in his first three years in the league. Prior to this season, Thomas accumulated 158 receptions for 1,688 yards and six scores. Average that out and it’s 52 catches, 562 yards and two touchdowns per season, something that should benefit with Matthew Stafford and a high passing offense the Lions employ.
Still don’t expect for Thomas to come in and light the world on fire for the Lions. In fact I really don’t expect that he’ll unseat Broyles for that slot role. He will however be a nice commodity on third down or when the Lions go four wide.
h/t: Detroit Free Press