The Detroit Lions are reportedly bringing in an undrafted rookie who has a notable family connection in the NFL. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Lions are signing former Syracuse and Georgia wide receiver Jackson Meeks to an undrafted free agent deal that includes $200,000 guaranteed.

What makes this move even more intriguing is that Meeks is the nephew of veteran free agent defensive end Za’Darius Smith.

Smith is currently a free agent after the Lions released him, a decision that saved the team $11 million over the next two years. Lions general manager Brad Holmes emphasized that the move was strictly financial and that the team remained open to reuniting with Smith. The last time Holmes addressed the media about Smith, he made it clear that the next move was up to Smith and his representatives.

“I think we basically left it where his agent would reach out if anything developed or if there were any updates,” Holmes said two weeks ago.

As for Meeks, he’s coming off a strong breakout season with Syracuse. In 2024, he totaled 78 receptions for 1,021 yards and seven touchdowns.

Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 213 pounds, Meeks could potentially compete for Detroit’s WR-X role in the future, though initially, he’ll have to earn a spot through special teams. He has significant experience in special teams roles and played on the punt coverage unit last season.