3 reasons why the Detroit Lions desperately need the Steelers WR James Washington

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver James Washington The team was contacted on Friday to request a transaction. The former second-round pick from Oklahoma State University has played for the Steelers for the past three seasons.

However, due to his lack of playing time during his tenure with the Steelers, it is clear that this preseason has been the same so far. Washington hopes to be traded elsewhere so that he has the opportunity to play more.

Although the team’s game time is limited, Washington has always been a reliable receiver for the Steelers. But with JuJu Smith-Schuster, Diontae Johnson and Chase Claypool leading him on the team’s depth chart, his playing time continued to decrease.

The Steelers decide where and when to trade James Washington Still unknown. But one thing is certain, the team may get a reliable wide receiver who can get off the court when needed.

One of the many teams interested in becoming Washington’s trading partner is the Detroit Lions. Jared Gove is now at the center. What can Washington do for the new Lions? At this point, here are three reasons why the Lions can benefit by acquiring the Pittsburgh Steelers WR James Washington.

#1 The departure of the veteran wide receiver

In addition to trading Matthew Stafford to the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for Jared Gove, The Lions also parted ways with most wide receivers. Kenny Gollard, Danny Amendola, Marvin Jones and Jamal Agnew are no longer on the list.

The Lions should give Gove a reliable wide receiver, he is used to it. James Washington may be that person. Washington worked with rookies Amon-Ra St. Brown and Breshad Perriman to help upgrade the spacious reception room for the Lions.

#2 fast slot receiver

James Washington’s speed made him an accurate and reliable slot receiver when he watched the game in Pittsburgh. His ability to track and get to where the quarterback needs him makes him a key to the team.

In his three seasons with the team, Washington and the Steelers have received more than 1,300 yards and 9 touchdowns. If he becomes a starter, this may increase greatly.

#3 affordability

James Washington is entering the final year of his rookie contract. Obviously, he does not believe that he will play enough games to get an important contract extension, or if there is, he will not renew the contract with the Steelers.

If the Lions want to trade James Washington, The remaining salary of his contract will be slightly more than 1 million US dollars. For wide receivers, this may be WR 1; that is economical.

In exchange for Washington, the Lions may only need to send draft picks. Considering that Washington only shot 44% of the snapshots in 2020, it may not exceed the third round picks.