The Detroit Lions are continuing to add talent after the 2025 NFL Draft, this time turning to the undrafted free agent market and finding a player with notable NFL family ties.
Per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Lions have signed former Georgia and Syracuse wideout Jackson Meeks to a rookie free agent deal that reportedly includes $200,000 guaranteed. That level of financial investment signals that Detroit sees real upside in Meeks, who is the nephew of longtime NFL edge rusher Za’Darius Smith.
Meeks is more than just a typical undrafted pickup. Measuring 6-foot-2 and 213 pounds, he adds size to Detroit’s receiving corps and is coming off a strong final season at Syracuse, where he racked up 78 receptions for 1,021 yards and seven scores in 2024.
The Lions already boast wide receiver depth with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams at the top, and rookies Isaac TeSlaa and Dominic Lovett now joining the mix. Even so, Meeks’ blend of size, output, and special teams ability could help him earn a spot on the 53-man squad.
Though Meeks could eventually compete for reps at the X receiver position, his primary opportunity, at least early on, will come on special teams. That’s often the gateway to a Lions roster spot — one that prizes grit, toughness, and versatility under Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes.
Detroit is coming off its best regular season ever at 15–2, claiming the NFC’s top seed. Even as competition rises, the team remains focused on young prospects who match their relentless, team-oriented style. Meeks’ physical skill set and special teams prowess make him a strong fit in that mold.
Having an uncle like Za’Darius Smith — who brings veteran experience and a strong locker room presence — only adds to Meeks’ appeal as a developmental prospect.
The Lions are doing more than just adding players; they’re crafting a team built on physicality, football IQ, and attitude. Jackson Meeks checks every box. His road won’t be easy, but by shining on special teams, he could become another late-round or undrafted success story for Detroit’s 2025 class.
