The Detroit Lions are entering the 2025 season with one of the most complete rosters in the NFL, and their wide receiver group is a big part of that strength. Headlined by All-Pro Amon-Ra St. Brown and the ascending Jameson Williams, Detroit’s passing game is expected to be among the league’s most dangerous. But the front office isn’t done hunting for talent.
In a move that underscores their attention to depth and development, the Lions have invited former South Carolina and Georgia Tech wideout Ahmarean Brown to rookie minicamp. The news, first reported by Mike Uva of Gamecock Central, comes just days after Brown participated in the Philadelphia Eagles’ rookie camp without receiving a contract offer.
Brown, a 5-foot-9, 165-pound burner, brings elite speed to the table. His 4.37-second 40-yard dash puts him in the top percentile of draft-eligible receivers in terms of raw athleticism. That speed once made him one of the most explosive freshmen in the country, averaging 18.9 yards per catch during his first season at Georgia Tech.
While Brown’s college production dipped following his transfer to South Carolina, he finished his five-year career with 92 receptions, 1,136 yards, and nine touchdowns. Though undrafted, he briefly signed with the Cleveland Browns before spending time on the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad last season.
For the Lions, this move is a low-risk, high-upside opportunity to evaluate another deep-threat option behind a loaded top trio. In addition to St. Brown and Williams, Detroit brought in veteran Tim Patrick, who’s looking to revive his career following two seasons lost to injury.
The Lions’ receiver depth beyond those top names remains up for grabs. With return specialist Kalif Raymond and young players like Antoine Green and Tre’Quan Smith battling for roster spots, Brown will need to flash in a big way during the minicamp to earn a spot in OTAs.
The challenge for Brown isn’t just standing out—it’s doing so against an extremely competitive group with postseason expectations. But if there’s a silver lining, it’s that Detroit has shown a willingness to reward effort and athleticism, regardless of draft status.
Brown’s size will continue to be a question mark. At 165 pounds, he’s well below the average for NFL wideouts, raising concerns about his ability to take hits and block in Detroit’s physical offensive scheme. However, the league has seen success stories from undersized playmakers before.
What could help Brown’s case is his ability to contribute on special teams. If he can show promise as a returner or gunner, he could increase his value to the coaching staff. Speed and versatility are always in demand—especially for players on the roster bubble.
The Lions have already turned heads this offseason by maintaining their core and adding key contributors in both free agency and the draft. Inviting Brown is another example of the front office exploring every angle, even if it means giving a second shot to someone passed over by another contender.
While a roster spot may be a long shot for Brown, making it through minicamp and earning a ticket to OTAs would be a significant step. From there, he could fight his way onto the practice squad—or more—if injuries or preseason performances shake up the depth chart.
For now, Ahmarean Brown’s NFL dream remains alive. And in Detroit, where the front office prizes competition and speed, he just might find the opportunity he’s been chasing.