Josh Reynolds joined the Lions midway through last season and sparked their downfield passing attack. Now he's sticking around.
Reynolds, who was set to hit the open market next week, has signed a two-year extension with the Lions, his agency announced Tuesday. The deal has a max value of $12 million, according to Mike Garafolo, who adds that the Lions liked Reynolds' "leadership and his relationship with Jared Goff" and wanted to get something done before the start of free agency March 16.
The Lions claimed Reynolds off waivers after he was released last November by the Titans. With his long frame and ability to stretch the field, he had two things Detroit's offense was missing.
At the time, Goff was averaging a paltry a 6.3 yards per attempt with a passer rating of 84.0. In five games with Reynolds in the lineup, Goff averaged 7.1 yards per attempt with a passer rating of 107.1, an extension of their chemistry from three seasons together on the Rams.
All told, Reynolds produced 19 catches for 306 yards and two touchdowns in seven games for Detroit. Over the full season, his 16.1 yards per catch would have ranked fifth in the NFL.
The Lions have made it clear that adding more receiving talent is a priority this offseason. After rookie Amon-Ra St. Brown, their leading pass catchers last season were running back D'Andre Swift and tight end T.J. Hockenson. Their offense produced just five passing plays of at least 40 yards, tied for the fewest in the NFL.
Re-signing a 6'3 vertical threat is a start, with more additions to come in free agency and the draft.
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