Former LSU star DJ Chark reportedly lands with new team

NFL free agency is in full swing, and former LSU Tigers and Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver DJ Chark has reportedly landed with the Detroit Lions. Chark, who played in just four games this past season, heads to the Lions to become a focal point in the Detroit passing game.

“The #Lions are expected to sign former #Jaguars WR DJ Chark, source said,” Rapoport tweeted. “They get their big-ticket pass-catcher.”

Chark’s fractured ankle that he suffered this past season perhaps limited his value on the open market. Regardless, he is in a good position to see serious involvement in the Lions offense next season. And he also got a pretty good pay day as well.

“For DJ Chark, it’s a 1-year deal worth $10M fully guaranteed,” said Rapoport.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Chark’s deal is worth up to a maximum value of $12 million next season.

Chark first entered the league when the Jaguars selected him in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of LSU. That selection came after Chark recorded 66 receptions for 1,351 yards and ten total touchdowns across his collegiate career. As a rookie with the Jaguars in 2018, Chark grabbed 14 receptions for 174 yards.

In 2019, Chark broke out as one of the top receivers in the league. He hauled in 73 passes for 1,008 yards and eight touchdowns, earning his first Pro Bowl appearance. Chark followed that up with a solid 2020 season, bringing in 53 receptions for 706 yards and five touchdowns. In the four games prior to his injury last season, he had seven receptions for 154 yards and two touchdowns.

Chark should be a focal point for the Lions

Entering the offseason, the Lions were in pretty serious need of another wide receiver. Amon-Ra St. Brown emerged as a star last season, leading the team with 90 receptions for 912 yards and five touchdowns. Kalif Raymond had a solid year with 48 catches for 576 yards and four touchdowns. The Lions also have running back D’Andre Swift and tight end TJ Hockenson, both of whom play serious roles in the passing game.

Ultimately, adding Chark makes a lot of sense for the Lions. He should seamlessly slide into the offense opposite of St. Brown, and he should provide another reliable option in that offense for Detroit’s quarterback, whether that’s Jared Goff or somebody else.