As the Detroit Lions fight to keep their playoff hopes alive late in the 2025 NFL season, the spotlight has unexpectedly shifted to their receiver depth chart. With star wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown officially listed as questionable for Thursday night’s crucial matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, Detroit may be forced to rely on a rookie in one of its biggest games of the year.
St. Brown suffered an ankle injury on Thanksgiving and is just one week into a projected 1–2 week recovery timeline. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, his availability will likely come down to a game-time decision. Losing him would be a significant blow for the Lions, as St. Brown had already recorded 75 receptions for 884 yards and nine touchdowns, ranking among the league’s top producers before the injury.
So, who steps in if St. Brown cannot play?
The Lions list rookie Isaac TesLaa as St. Brown’s direct backup on the official team depth chart. TesLaa, drafted in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, has been viewed as a promising developmental playmaker with strong hands, size, and route discipline. While he doesn’t yet carry St. Brown’s experience or production, Detroit believes in his upside and versatility within their offensive scheme.
If St. Brown is ruled out or limited, TesLaa is expected to see expanded snaps in the slot and intermediate passing game. The Lions may also rotate additional receivers to help replicate St. Brown’s impact, but TesLaa remains the primary next-man-up option.
With Detroit entering a must-win stretch, all eyes will be on the rookie should he be called upon to fill in for one of the league’s top receivers.