The Lions WR position scored a 0/10 need on my Defensive Positional Need Rankings. However, if a good prospect falls to them, they might pounce. Deion Burks ran a blazing 40 at the combine who has some medical concerns that could cause him to drop. The Lions showed interest at the combine by meeting with him.
Here is the excerpt from my medical report on Deion Burks:
(Ages in parentheses are at start of 2026 season and are factored into the concern level. Injury info and ages based on available public information are unverified and subject to update. Games played data courtesy of sports-reference.com.)
Deion Burks, WR (23) – Oklahoma
Projected round 3-4. Ran 4.30 40 at combine. Matt Miller’s #108 overall player. Met with Lions at combine.
Concern level 7/10
Burks has two head/neck injuries that are concerning. One was very likely a concussion that may have also included a neck injury which necessitated a hospital evaluation. The cervical spine will need to be cleared by medical.
The other concussion kept him out for multiple weeks. The concern going forward is whether he is prone to concussions, and how much time he will need to miss with any future concussions. There is even a risk that further concussions could threaten his career. The Lions’ experience with Jahvid Best is relevant here.
A thigh injury that cost him multiple weeks also warrants further investigation. The good news is he had a reliable final season of college.
Burks accumulated 151 receptions for 1669 yards in college.
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This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Detroit Lions NFL Draft Injury Report: Oklahoma WR Deion Burks
Reporting by Jimmy Liao, MD, Lions Wire / Lions Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
