Let’s cut right to it: The Detroit Lions made headlines this year when they drafted wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa, a pick that’s stirring up debates across the city (and beyond). If you’re like me (someone who’s watched the Lions climb, stumble, and climb again) you’re probably asking the same question I am: What exactly did we give up for TeSlaa, and was it worth the price?
It’s a question that’s got teeth. It deserves more than a hot take or a quick scroll through Twitter. So, let’s break it down. We’ll look at what the Lions traded, what ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler had to say, and how Brad Holmes justified the move. Then, I want to hear from you. Really. This isn’t just another blog post; it’s an invitation to join the conversation.
So, buckle up. Let’s get gritty.
The Trade: What the Lions Gave Up
First, let’s set the record straight. To move up and grab TeSlaa, the Lions traded their third-round pick and both third round picks next year to leapfrog a handful of teams with WR needs. It wasn’t a blockbuster deal, but it wasn’t pocket change either. In fact, a lot of people were scratching their head, thinking Holmes gave up too much.
Let’s put it in perspective:
- Third-rounders often turn into solid starters. Not franchise-altering, maybe, but guys who fill holes and stick around.
- Third-round picks in the NFL are generally seen as valuable but not guaranteed starters.
- These players often provide depth to a roster, filling backup roles or contributing on special teams in the NFL.
- Teams expect third-rounders to have the potential to develop into starters within a few seasons, but immediate impact is less common.
- Many third-round picks become reliable role players, occasionally outperforming expectations and earning starting jobs.
- They are often viewed as “upside” picks. Players with strong physical tools or productivity but some question marks (injury history, level of competition, or raw skills).
- While not as highly celebrated as first or second-rounders, successful third-round picks represent good value for teams and can be key to building depth and sustaining success.
Was it a steep price? Not compared to some of the wild moves we’ve seen. Remember the Bears trading up for Trubisky? Still, it’s enough draft capital that you can’t just shrug and say, “Eh, who cares?”
Here’s where it gets interesting: The Lions weren’t alone in eyeballing TeSlaa. According to Jeremy Fowler’s piece over at ESPN, at least two other teams were ready to pounce. Detroit’s front office saw the writing on the wall and made their move.
Who Is Isaac TeSlaa, Anyway?
If you’re scratching your head, you’re not alone. TeSlaa isn’t a household name—yet. He’s not Marvin Harrison Jr. or Malik Nabers. He’s a small-school kid with a big frame and even bigger upside.
Here’s what stands out about him:
- Size: At 6’4”, TeSlaa is the kind of receiver who can box out defenders like he’s grabbing a rebound.
- Hands: Reliable. Wouldn’t drop a pass if you threw him a cinder block.
- Work Ethic: Coaches rave about it. The kind of guy who’s first in, last out. Pure Detroit grit.
You know that kid from your high school team who didn’t look like much but always made the key play? That’s TeSlaa. Only now he’s making a run at Sundays.
What Jeremy Fowler Thinks
Jeremy Fowler’s recent article on ESPN didn’t sugarcoat it. He called Detroit’s pick “bold.” He pointed out that the Lions had other options. They could’ve sat tight, saved their picks, and still gotten a decent receiver. Instead, they bet on TeSlaa’s upside.
Fowler wrote:
“The Lions’ front office saw something others didn’t. They believe TeSlaa can develop into a starting-caliber receiver, even if it takes a year or two. The cost was real, but so is the potential reward.”
That’s the gamble. Fowler didn’t say it was a slam dunk. He didn’t say it was a bust. He said what a lot of us are thinking: This is a roll of the dice.
Brad Holmes’ Take: Betting on Grit
Brad Holmes, Detroit’s GM, has a way of talking that makes you want to trust him. Maybe it’s the calm. Maybe it’s the conviction. Or maybe it’s just that he’s the first GM in years who seems to know what he’s doing.
When asked about the TeSlaa pick, Holmes said:
“We saw a player who fits our culture. He’s tough. He’s smart. He works. That’s what we want in Detroit. Sometimes you have to pay a little extra to get the right guy.”
That stuck with me. I grew up in Detroit. I know what tough looks like. My dad used to say, “You can’t fake grit.” Holmes is betting that TeSlaa is the real deal. And for the first time in a while, I actually believe him.
Was It Worth It?
Here’s the million-dollar question. Did the Lions give up too much? Or was this exactly the kind of move a team on the rise should make?
Let’s keep it real:
- If TeSlaa turns into a legit WR2 or better? No one will remember what we gave up.
- If he flames out? Fans will be grumbling about that third-rounder until the next draft.
But that’s football. Every draft pick is a gamble. Sometimes you draft a Calvin Johnson. Sometimes it’s Charles Rogers. The only way to know is to wait and see.
Here’s how I see it: Detroit isn’t just building a team. They’re building a culture. Guys like TeSlaa are part of that. He might not light up the stat sheet this year, but if he blocks, hustles, and makes the tough catches on third down, he’ll fit right in.
Why Your Opinion Matters
I could talk about this for hours (just ask my wife), but what I really want is to hear from you. Seriously. That’s why we built the ThatDetroitGrit.com forum. To give Lions fans a place to sound off.
- Do you think the TeSlaa pick was smart?
- Would you have held onto those picks and played it safe?
- Are you buying what Brad Holmes is selling, or do you think he’s just spinning the story?
Jump into the forum. Leave a comment below. Let’s hash it out together.
My Two Cents (And a Story)
Let me get personal for a second. Years ago, I watched the Lions draft a “can’t-miss” wide receiver. I bought the jersey, talked trash to my Packers-fan friends, and convinced myself this was our year. By Halloween, I was looking up mock drafts for the next season. Sound familiar?
But here’s the thing: I never stopped caring. I never stopped believing that this time might be different. That’s the curse and the beauty of being a Lions fan. I will forever “drink the Kool-Aid.”
So, when I see Brad Holmes swinging for the fences, I get it. Sometimes you have to roll the dice and live with the outcome. If you’re reading this, you probably do too.
Let’s Talk. Seriously.
This blog isn’t just for me to rant (though I do enjoy it). It’s for all of us. The Lions are our team. The good picks, the bad picks, the heartbreak and the hope. It all belongs to us.
So here’s my challenge to you:
Head over to the forum. Drop your take.
Or just leave a comment below. Even if you disagree with me. Especially if you disagree.
Questions to spark the conversation:
- What do you think the Lions’ biggest need is right now?
- Which draft pick are you most excited (or worried) about?
- How do you rate Brad Holmes after this draft?
Your opinion matters. Your voice makes this community stronger. Don’t just read. Join in.
Final Thoughts
TeSlaa could be a star. He could be a bust. We don’t know yet. But what we do know is that the Lions are finally acting like a team with a plan. That’s something worth talking about.
So, let’s keep the conversation going. Head to the ThatDetroitGrit.com forum, leave a comment, and let’s build something together. Your take might just be the one that changes someone’s mind.
Because in Detroit, grit isn’t just a word. It’s who we are. And together, we’re stronger.
See you in the forum.