Holmes Strikes Again: Lions GM Nabs Jets WR Denzel Mims in Trade

No, it’s not New York Jets wide receiver Corey Davis, who was previously rumored to be a target of the Detroit Lions.

It’s his teammate.

In a surprising turn of events, the Detroit Lions have acquired wide receiver Denzel Mims from the New York Jets, as initially reported by Connor Hughes of SNY. A well-timed move from the Lions front office, led by General Manager Brad Holmes, nabs the talented wide receiver and a 2025 seventh-round pick, in return for a conditional sixth-round pick in 2025. The trade confirmation was courtesy of NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

This is a deliberate and tactical move by the Lions. Particularly after the suspension of Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams for the initial six games of the coming season. The Lions, coming off a 9-8 season, are the current favorites to win the NFC North.

Unique Attributes of Denzel Mims to Bolster Lions’ Offense

Despite not boasting extraordinary stats, Mims is a rare breed of athlete. His exceptional combination of size and speed, standing 6’3″ and weighing 210 pounds, with a 4.38 40-yard dash, makes him a valuable addition to the Lions’ wide receiver room. The Baylor product has unique versatility, able to function as an outside X or Y receiver or in the slot. The Lions have been lacking this size-speed combination in their squad, which Mims perfectly embodies.

This fresh start for Mims is a long-awaited opportunity for the 25-year-old wide receiver. Once laden with high expectations, he has struggled with consistency throughout his career. The inconsistencies may have been influenced by the quarterback carousel he was forced into while with the New York Jets. Now, Mims finds himself part of a Detroit offense guided by offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, and Jared Goff under center.

Fresh Opportunity in Detroit for Mims

The Lions wouldn’t make this trade if they weren’t planning on using him. One has got to believe that this got done with the intention to utilize Mims and his untapped potential early and often. Ben Johnson, known for his offensive innovation, is expected to assimilate Mims quickly into the team’s strategy and tap into his athleticism.

Mims had publicly sought a fresh start since before the 2022 season. His tenure at the Jets saw him record 42 receptions for 676 yards over three years, albeit without any touchdowns. The team was reportedly considering waiving Mims if a trade hadn’t materialized.

With Mims now in Detroit, he provides another weapon for Jared Goff. particularly as the team navigates the early season suspension of Jameson Williams. Alongside the likes of Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Marvin Jones, the Detroit Lions wide receiver room can officially be feared.

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For more from our Detroit Lions beat writer, Matt Broder, check him out on Twitter here: @mattbro21

Contact: Broder@woodwardsports.com

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Original Photo Credit: © Vincent Carchietta- USA TODAY Sports