Detroit Lions Make a Move for Donovan Peoples-Jones: Acquiring the WR for a 2025 Sixth-Round Pick
In a move that has sent waves through the NFL, the Detroit Lions have acquired wide receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones from the Cleveland Browns in exchange for a 2025 sixth-round pick. The trade, confirmed by Lions general manager Brad Holmes, marks a significant step in Detroit’s efforts to bolster their receiving corps as they continue their push to compete in the NFC. Peoples-Jones brings with him a blend of size, speed, and versatility, and his acquisition adds depth to an already exciting Lions offense.
The Lions’ decision to trade for Peoples-Jones highlights their commitment to building a balanced and explosive offensive attack. Peoples-Jones, who has been a reliable target for the Cleveland Browns since being drafted in 2020, possesses the physical attributes and skill set necessary to thrive in Detroit’s dynamic offense.
At 6’2″ and 212 pounds, Peoples-Jones has the size and athleticism to be a legitimate threat on the outside. He’s known for his ability to stretch the field with his speed, making him a deep-ball threat for any quarterback. Over his career, Peoples-Jones has shown the ability to get open on a variety of routes, but his standout trait is his ability to make plays down the field. His speed and physicality make him a dangerous asset on vertical routes, and he has the potential to develop into a top-tier deep threat for the Lions.
While he’s not yet a household name, Peoples-Jones has shown flashes of brilliance in Cleveland. In 2024, he recorded 54 receptions for 795 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 14.7 yards per catch. This is a solid showing for a player who was often the third or fourth option in a loaded Browns offense. His ability to contribute in multiple aspects of the passing game—whether as a deep threat or a possession receiver—makes him a perfect fit for Detroit’s offensive scheme, which is predicated on versatility and explosive plays.
For the Lions, the acquisition of Peoples-Jones gives them another weapon on the outside alongside rising star Amon-Ra St. Brown and veteran wideout DJ Chark. St. Brown has quickly established himself as one of the league’s most reliable and skilled receivers, while Chark’s deep-threat ability complements the short-to-intermediate routes run by St. Brown. Peoples-Jones adds another dimension to the Lions’ offense, especially when it comes to stretching the field and providing quarterback Jared Goff with additional options.
Peoples-Jones’ biggest strength is his ability to create big plays in the passing game. Over the course of his career with the Browns, he has demonstrated a knack for making critical catches on third downs and in key moments. His explosiveness and playmaking ability make him an ideal candidate for a role as a downfield threat, a key piece of the Lions’ offensive philosophy.
One of the most appealing aspects of Peoples-Jones is his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. Not only is he capable of being a deep threat, but he has also shown the ability to run intermediate routes effectively. His balance of speed, strength, and route-running savvy gives him the versatility to line up both on the outside and in the slot. This flexibility will allow Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to utilize him in a variety of ways, making it difficult for opposing defenses to predict where he will line up or how he will be used.
Additionally, Peoples-Jones has consistently improved over the years. His ability to adjust to the speed of the NFL and become a reliable receiver for the Browns in a competitive AFC North division is a testament to his work ethic and football IQ. As he enters his fifth season in the league, there’s every reason to believe that Peoples-Jones will continue to improve and reach his full potential as a weapon in Detroit’s offense.
What makes this trade even more appealing for the Lions is the relatively low cost. For a 2025 sixth-round pick, Detroit is acquiring a receiver with significant upside. While it’s true that the Lions gave up a draft pick, the return in terms of Peoples-Jones’ potential is well worth the investment. A sixth-round pick is a relatively low-risk asset, especially when considering that it’s an opportunity for Detroit to add a talented, proven player to their roster for minimal capital.
For the Browns, this trade might indicate a desire to free up space in their receiving corps or to focus on acquiring other assets. With a deep group of wide receivers, including the likes of Amari Cooper, Elijah Moore, and rookie Cedric Tillman, the Browns may have felt that they could afford to part ways with Peoples-Jones. The 2025 sixth-round pick they receive gives them additional flexibility as they look to improve their roster in other areas.
The Lions’ trade for Donovan Peoples-Jones is part of a larger strategy to build a team capable of competing in the NFC North and making a deep playoff run. As Detroit continues to build its roster under general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell, moves like this one show that the team is committed to improving at every position.
Adding another talented receiver to complement St. Brown, Chark, and the team’s strong tight end group gives Jared Goff more weapons at his disposal. Goff, who enjoyed a career resurgence in 2024, will have the opportunity to build chemistry with Peoples-Jones and integrate him into the offense. With the ability to stretch the field vertically and create big plays, Peoples-Jones should provide Goff with another reliable target as they look to put up points in a competitive NFC.
The NFC North has seen significant improvements across the board, with the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears both making moves to bolster their rosters. The Lions, however, are positioning themselves to challenge for the division title and make a strong playoff push. With the addition of Peoples-Jones, they are giving themselves another tool to stay competitive in a division that is expected to be tight once again in 2025.
The acquisition of Donovan Peoples-Jones for a 2025 sixth-round pick is a smart and strategic move by the Detroit Lions. Peoples-Jones’ size, speed, and playmaking ability make him a valuable addition to a growing offense. As the Lions continue to build a roster that is capable of competing for a playoff spot and potentially more, this trade exemplifies the team’s willingness to make moves that strengthen their chances.
For Peoples-Jones, this trade represents a new opportunity to take on a larger role in a high-powered offense. For the Lions, it’s an addition that further establishes their commitment to building a competitive, dynamic team. The 2025 season is shaping up to be an exciting one in Detroit, and this trade could very well be one of the key moves that helps push them over the top.