Tim Patrick‘s return to the NFL resulted in a strong season with the Lions in 2024. The veteran wideout will remain in Detroit for at least one more campaign. 
The Lions announced on Friday that Patrick has been re-signed. Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports this will be a one-year deal worth up to $4MM. A complementary role will again be in store on a Detroit team led by Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams at the receiver position.
Patrick had a successful run with the Broncos from 2018-21, but two major injuries derailed his career. The former UDFA suffered an ACL tear in 2022, and he missed the entire campaign as a result. Patrick was set to return the following year, but an offseason Achilles tear left him sidelined for 2023 as well. His Denver release during roster cutdowns this past summer came after talks on a Saints trade did not produce a deal.
In spite of that, Patrick did not need to wait long to find a new opportunity. The Utah product took a deal on the Lions’ practice squad, and after being elevated three teams he found himself as a regular presence in the lineup. Patrick handled a 59% snap share, operating as a key role player on the league’s highest-scoring offense. He posted 33 catches for 394 yards and three touchdowns during his debut Detroit campaign, and similar production will be expected moving forward.
Fellow receiver Allen Robinson is open to re-signing with the Lions, but the former Pro Bowler is also giving thought to retirement. Robinson hardly made an impact in 2024, but if he elected to hang up his cleats (or sign elsewhere as a free agent) Patrick’s continued presence would provide important continuity on offense as the team enters the post-Ben Johnson era on offense. Patrick, 31, could help his 2026 free agent stock with another productive Lions campaign, and it will be interesting to see if he takes on an even larger role in the passing game next season.
Patrick is a solid WR who still has some quicks.
Good veteran to have with such a young WR duo at the top of the depth chart.
I’m sure Detroit will draft somebody or sign a UDFA to compete with him in training camp as well.
Patrick may not have had many receptions or yards, but he was a valuable blocker and a clear starter in a brilliant Lions’ offense. I am very happy that he is coming back.
Gruß,
BSHH
Things are getting interesting in UFL land with the labor talks.
link to x.com