The Detroit Lions didn’t make many big moves during free agency, but the few they did are already being impacted by the NFL Draft. While much attention has gone to the defensive line after selecting Tyleik Williams, one of the more overlooked consequences involves a recent addition to the offense.
The Lions’ minimal activity in signing wide receivers during the offseason hinted at a draft-day focus on the position—and that’s exactly what happened. As a result, Ronnie Bell, the lone free-agent wide receiver Detroit picked up, could be cut before ever stepping on the field for the team.
Ronnie Bell Faces Uncertain Future in Crowded WR Room
Bell, a former 49er and Michigan Wolverine, was signed to a futures contract back in January. At 24, with 26 games of NFL experience under his belt, he initially appeared to be a promising depth option with potential.
But the Lions’ draft choices shifted the landscape. While Isaac TeSlaa is expected to compete higher up the depth chart, Detroit also selected Georgia’s Dominic Lovett in the seventh round—directly threatening Bell’s spot. Post-draft, the Lions further deepened their receiving corps by signing undrafted rookies Jackson Meeks and Jakobie Keeney-James.
Bell’s situation is complicated by the fact that he may not be eligible for a practice squad role due to his NFL experience. That means the Lions could risk losing him to waivers if they release him—and given the influx of young talent, they might be willing to take that risk if the rookies perform well in camp.
