Jeremy Kerley is coming to the Detroit Lions in an attempt to be the team's No. 3 receiver and possibly the punt returner.
Based on the structure of the deal, it's a low-risk deal for the Lions with the hopes of a mutual reward. For Detroit, strong play would give Detroit a more established No. 3 receiver to pair with Marvin Jones and Golden Tate. For Kerley, it would be a chance to resurrect a career that had been trending downward with the Jets, at least offensively.
The Lions are paying Kerley $760,000 in base salary for 2016, along with a $50,000 signing bonus -- the only part of the contract that is guaranteed. He has a workout bonus of $40,000. He has a chance to earn $300,000 more in incentive-based pay based on receptions and yards -- a contract structure that has become familiar under new general manager Bob Quinn.
Kerley played in 74 games over five seasons with the Jets, catching 182 passes for 2,225 yards and nine touchdowns. He'll compete with TJ Jones, Corey Fuller, Ryan Spadola, Corey Washington and Austin Willis for a roster spot this season.
