Detroit Lions Release Veteran Receiver As They Continue Rebuilding Process

Former First-Round Pick Quintez Cephus Departs Motor City

Lions Continue to Trim Roster, Focus on Youth Movement

The Detroit Lions have released wide receiver Quintez Cephus, the team announced Monday. Cephus, a former first-round pick by the Lions in 2020, had been with the team for three seasons.

Cephus's release comes as the Lions continue to rebuild their roster under new general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell. The Lions have made a number of moves this offseason to get younger and more athletic, and Cephus's departure is another step in that direction.

Cephus had a disappointing season in 2022, catching just 15 passes for 181 yards and one touchdown. He was also penalized seven times, which led to some frustration from the coaching staff.

With Cephus gone, the Lions will likely look to younger receivers like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Kalif Raymond to step up in 2023. St. Brown is coming off a breakout season in which he led the Lions in receiving yards and touchdowns, while Williams is a highly-touted rookie who is expected to make an immediate impact.

The Lions are hoping that their young receivers can help them improve on their 9-8 record from last season and make a run at the playoffs in 2023.