Denzel Mims has been looking for a fresh start for over a year. The physically gifted wideout believes he’s found a place where he can thrive in Detroit.
The Lions traded with the New York Jets for Mims last week. Mims never really worked out with the Jets since being a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL draft out of Baylor. He had asked for a trade out of New York a year ago but the Jets never found any takers.
Now that he’s in Detroit, Mims is ready to prove that the Jets were the problem, not him.
“It was a fresh start for me, a new start for me,” Mims said during Lions training camp of the trade. “I was excited to get here, I wanted to get here right away, they got me here right away so I could get started and get acclimated to the team. I’m just blessed to be here, honestly.”
Mims has already shown the speed and ability to make impressive catches down the field while getting to know QB Jared Goff and his new Lions teammates. He’s also been working hard to master offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s intricate playbook.
“I already got the system kind of down,” Mims stated. “Been in early, staying late. Pretty much got the playbook down already.”
That remains to be proven, of course. Even so, it’s encouraging to hear Mims putting in the extra time and focusing on making the most of his second chance. In New York, Mims wasn’t exactly notable for his work ethic or dedication. The chance to prove himself in Detroit is off to a flying start.
