After visiting Allen Park just over two weeks ago, the Detroit Lions announced they have signed veteran wide receiver Jermaine Kearse to a one-year deal.
Kearse spent the last two season with the New York Jets in what was a tale of two drastically different seasons. In 2017, Kearse caught 65 passes for and averaged over 50 yards a game and 12.5 yards per reception, playing a critical role on offense.
Last year, his production took a drastic hit because of injuries and working with a rookie quarterback, finishing the season with 37 receptions, 26.5 yards per game average, a modest 10 yards per reception and wrapped up the season with an Achilles injury.
Prior to his time with the Jets, Kearse played five seasons with the Seattle Seahawks under new Lions offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell where he thrived and went from undrafted free agent to starter.
His experience in Bevell’s system was surely a large factor in his signing in Detroit, as the Lions were in desperate need of more talent on the depth chart and additional veteran leadership in the wide receiver meeting room.
Kearse could easily step into the fourth wide receiver role vacated by T.J. Jones this offseason, and in turn, buying time for younger players like sixth-round pick Travis Fulgham to develop.
The Lions released wide receiver Jordan Smallwood in a corresponding roster move.
