Amon-Ra St. Brown is the established 1,000-yard threat on the Detroit Lions. But the former USC star is projected to receive help on the perimeter. With a fellow 1,000-yard wideout projected to fall to the NFC North champs.
Pro Football Focus analyst Mason Cameron predicts St. Brown to team with an explosive WR from the Lions' home state: Tory Horton of Colorado State.
The Fresno native Horton brings two 1,000-yard campaigns in tow to the league. Unfortunately, Horton is projected to fall in the draft after missing 2024 with a season-ending injury. Still, Cameron envisions Horton and St. Brown forming a dynamic pair.
Amon-Ra St. Brown following the Lions' 2024 Thanksgiving win.
© Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK
"The Lions' receiving corps depth could use some attention, and Horton has the competitive fire to fit in perfectly with Dan Campbell's team culture," Cameron wrote. "While he may lack the explosion and long speed, he understands the nuances of playing the position, placing in the 89th percentile or better in yards per route run and separation rate over his last two college seasons."
Horton torched defenses in the Mountain West Conference before his ailment. But he delivered his best outing in front of Deion Sanders, Travis Hunter and company. Horton caught an astonishing 16 passes for 133 yards and scored once during the 2023 overtime loss to Colorado. The 6-foot-3 WR delivered his most receptions of his college career that evening in Boulder.
The ex-CSU Ram and Nevada wideout shredded one more high-profile opponent. He grabbed 10 passes for 130 yards against Boise State in Fort Collins -- which ended on a miracle 33-yard touchdown catch at the final second from Dallin Hooker. That Boise State team went on to win the MWC title.
Horton settled for 26 catches for 353 yards and one touchdown in 2024. He sustained a devastating knee injury that ruined his senior season. Horton still garnered praise for hitting CBs with quick feet and showing instincts for the ball.
The Lions are leaning towards improving the WR room next to St. Brown. Horton brings sleeper potential in the Motor City -- and can stretch the field right next to the Pro Bowler from USC.
