Sep 24, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Marquise Goodwin (3) runs with the ball during the first half against the Tennessee Titans at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
At this stage of his career, Marquise Goodwin, a free agent wide receiver, may not be the kind of player who can single-handedly turn the tide in football games. Having spent the 2023 season with the Cleveland Browns, he secured only four receptions for 67 yards across 12 games. Nonetheless, Goodwin, hailing from Texas, retains an above-average ability for deep routes and could serve as a wise addition to a team’s depth chart.
Since being drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 2013, Goodwin has journeyed through various teams as a free agent over the past decade. While he enjoyed his most productive seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, he also found moderate success with the Chicago Bears and Seattle Seahawks. Despite only one season surpassing 500 receiving yards, his exceptional straight-line speed demands respect from opposing defenses, particularly in stretching the field vertically. This speed remains a potent asset, prompting Bleacher Report to suggest that the Detroit Lions could benefit from his presence to bolster their passing options.
Nonetheless, adding some insurance at the receiver position wouldn’t go amiss. Despite his limited playing time with Cleveland last season, Marquise Goodwin still possesses game-changing speed, offering value as a situational fourth or fifth target.
Detroit Lions Urged To Sign Free Agent Marquise Goodwin
Detroit’s interest in acquiring free agent Marquise Goodwin likely stems from their confidence in former first-round pick Jameson Williams. Hailing from Alabama, Williams possesses exceptional speed that can change the game, yet he has struggled to translate his raw talent into tangible on-field performance. Williams endured setbacks in his rookie season due to an ACL injury, managing just one reception in six games. Additionally, a four-game suspension for gambling in 2023 further hindered his progress, resulting in lackluster statistics of 24 receptions for 354 yards and two touchdowns on 42 targets.
Despite these challenges, Williams has reportedly shown promise in offseason workouts. However, the significance of offseason success doesn’t always translate to regular-season performance, as evidenced by past examples like N’Keal Harry and Terrace Marshall. While there’s potential for Williams to progress, adding Marquise Goodwin as a free agent provides insurance for the Lions.
Entering his age-34 season, Goodwin’s prospects for signing with any team may be dwindling. Yet, if the Lions opt not to pursue him, other teams such as the five listed could consider bringing him on board.
