Lions Eye NFC North Crown with New Addition: Will Tim Patrick Make the Difference?

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Stephen A. Smith has predicted that the Detroit Lions will emerge as the winners of the NFC North, although he has expressed doubts about their ability to clinch a Super Bowl title.

In a recent development, former Denver Broncos wide receiver Tim Patrick is poised to join the Lions’ practice squad, with plans to eventually secure a spot on the active roster, according to sources close to the situation. The Broncos parted ways with Patrick after finalizing their roster to 53 players on Tuesday.

Broncos general manager George Paton praised Patrick, stating, “On behalf of everyone in the organization, I just can’t say enough great things about the type of player, the person, Tim Patrick while he has been a Bronco for the past seven seasons.”

After missing the previous two seasons due to injuries, Patrick has made a full return to training camp this year, showcasing his skills with five receptions for 44 yards and a touchdown during the preseason. He spent the entire 2022 season recovering from a torn ACL sustained in training camp and also missed the 2023 season due to a torn Achilles tendon acquired early in camp. Patrick has fought his way back, having previously been waived by the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers in 2017, eventually cementing his place in the Broncos’ offense over the last four years.

At 30 years old, Patrick has recorded 143 catches for 2,009 yards and 12 touchdowns across 55 games in his career.

The Lions showed interest in Patrick following the release of veterans Donovan Peoples-Jones and Daurice Fountain, both of whom struggled to differentiate themselves during training camp and preseason. The addition of Patrick is expected to enhance depth and potentially serve as a valuable asset in the offensive lineup.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell remarked that having a larger wide receiver would be a beneficial addition, stating, “It would be a luxury to have.” He emphasized the advantages in one-on-one matchups, suggesting that the team could leverage those scenarios effectively. Campbell mentioned, “[Lions QB Jared] Goff is put into position to where he can play rebound, he can play big boys in the box and down on the block and is going to make a play for you.”

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