The Detroit Lions may be ready to trust second-year receiver Ryan Broyles with a starting spot next to Calvin Johnson, but that is not stopping the team from exploring the free agent market for remaining talent at the wide receiver position. The injury to Nate Burleson has left the team short handed and while a trade is possible, the team is working out free agents first.
The Detroit Free Press reports the Lions have brought in LaVelle Hawkins, Anthony Armstrong and Charles Hawkins in for a try out. All three wide receivers were with teams to start the year, but were released by the end of the preseason. LaVelle Hawkins was with the 49ers to start the year, but the 27-year old was released during the second-round of cuts. He also spent time with New England in the offseason. During his time with the Tennessee Titans, Hawkins put up 771 yards on 71 passes.
Armstrong has the most experience in the NFL. At 30, the veteran spent a recent amount of time with the Dallas Cowboys before the team opted not to retain him. His best year came in 2010 when he put up 871 yards on 44 passes. Charles Hawkins is a rookie who was cut by the Arizona Cardinals after being an undrafted free agent from Southern University.
These receivers all have their pros and cons. They will not be used for anything other than rotational depth at best. Detroit has also explored the options of a trade. The deadline to move players is Week 8 so the team has some time while Burleson is out. While specific teams have not been named, the Cleveland Browns are the top option for a deal with either Josh Gordon or Greg Little.
Until the Lions opt to make a move of any kind, they will rely on roster depth to help. Broyles is still recovering from ACL surgery back in December of last season. Detroit had hoped to work him back into football slowly, but that is no longer an option. The receiver is expected to start on Sunday. Tight end Tony Scheffler and running back Reggie Bush will also help pick up the slack in the passing game for Matthew Stafford. The quarterback notes the offense plan will remain the same despite Burleson's injury.