Third down is the money down in football. It’s about moving the chains or punching the ball in the end zone, depending on the situation. This is where offenses and, almost more specifically, wide receivers, make their money. In 2024, two Lions receivers did just that.
In a stat provided by The 33rd Team, the Lions had two of the top ten wide receivers last season in terms of highest expected points added (EPA) on third down. That includes the very top of the list in Amon-Ra St. Brown.
The most clutch WRs on 3rd down last season 🙌 pic.twitter.com/ggQhrJ366z
— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) February 20, 2025
St. Brown had a total EPA of +42.7 on third down, which was far and away the best total among all wide receivers. Next on the list was Terry McLaurin of the Washington Commanders at +29.1. St. Brown had 31 receptions for 412 yards and five touchdowns on third down. Only Wan’Dale Robinson (Giants) had more catches (34) and Courtland Sutton (Broncos) had more yards (452).
St. Brown was tied with six other players for the most touchdowns on third down. Those players were Justin Jefferson (Vikings), Quentin Johnston (Chargers), George Kittle (49ers), McLaurin, Brian Thomas (Jaguars) and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (Titans).
In addition to St. Brown being on the list, Jameson Williams also cracked the top ten with a +19.2 EPA on third down. Williams caught 14 passes for 200 yards and four touchdowns on third downs.
The Lions were fourth in the NFL in overall third-down conversion rate (46.98%). Clutch play from St. Brown and Williams were a key reason why.