Detroit Lions Isaac TeSlaa Continues To Prove The Doubters Wrong; Scores TD In 3rd Straight Game

As the Detroit Lions wrapped up their 2025 preseason, one of the brightest storylines to emerge was the consistent, electrifying play of rookie wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa. Capping off a stellar August, TeSlaa found the end zone for the third consecutive game in the finale against the Houston Texans, solidifying his case for a meaningful role in the offense and silencing critics who questioned his draft selection.

Detroit Lions Isaac TeSlaa: A Perfect Preseason Trifecta

Isaac TeSlaa’s performance against the Texans was a microcosm of his entire preseason: efficient, explosive, and impactful. On the Lions’ second drive, he demonstrated his reliability by converting a first down with an eight-yard reception from quarterback Kyle Allen. Just three plays later, he showcased his big-play ability, streaking down the right sideline to haul in a perfectly placed 33-yard touchdown pass. The play, which put the Detroit Lions ahead 7-3, was a display of speed, body control, and strong hands—traits he has consistently shown since training camp began.

The touchdown against Houston was the exclamation point on a dominant preseason campaign. TeSlaa finished the three-game stretch with impressive numbers, cementing his status as one of the team’s most pleasant surprises.

Isaac TeSlaa’s 2025 Preseason Stats:

• Receptions: 10
• Receiving Yards: 146
• Yards Per Catch: 14.6
• Touchdowns: 3

This stat line, highlighted by a touchdown in every contest, paints a clear picture of a player who not only made plays but did so with remarkable consistency.

Vindicating Brad Holmes

When General Manager Brad Holmes selected Isaac TeSlaa in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the decision was met with some skepticism. Critics questioned the value of taking a receiver with his profile at that stage, pointing to other available players or different team needs. However, Holmes has built a reputation on trusting his evaluation process, and TeSlaa is rapidly becoming the latest example of why that trust is well-placed.

Holmes recently praised TeSlaa not just for his receiving skills but for his commitment to the less glamorous aspects of the position. “He’s blocking, he’s training in the run game,” Holmes told Kay Adams. “I know when you hear blocking in the run game from a wide receiver, it’s like, ‘Well, you’ve got to catch the football,’ but that just shows a lot about the competitiveness and the desire of just a football player in general.”

This willingness to contribute as a blocker is a hallmark of the culture that head coach Dan Campbell has instilled in Detroit. It’s a non-negotiable trait for players who want to see the field, and TeSlaa has embraced it fully. His preseason performance has effectively vindicated Holmes’ decision, proving that the rookie is not just a talented pass-catcher but a complete football player who fits the team’s identity.

Carving Out a Role in a Talented Offense

TeSlaa entered training camp listed behind Jameson Williams on the depth chart, but his stellar play is forcing the coaching staff to find ways to get him involved. He has proven to be an effective downfield threat with a nose for the end zone, a skill set that complements the existing strengths of the Lions’ receiving corps, which includes Amon-Ra St. Brown and Williams.

While it is still just the preseason, TeSlaa has shown all the necessary tools to earn a spot in the receiver rotation. His combination of good speed, great hands, and excellent body control makes him a difficult matchup for defensive backs.

His dedication to run blocking elevates his value significantly. In an offense that wants to be physical and control the line of scrimmage, having a wide receiver who excels as a blocker is a massive advantage. It allows offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to be more creative with play-action and running schemes, knowing he has a receiver who can effectively seal the edge.

As the Lions make their final roster cuts, Isaac TeSlaa’s place seems secure. He has not only played his way onto the 53-man roster but has likely played his way into a significant role. The initial questions surrounding his draft selection have been replaced by palpable excitement about his potential. For a team with Super Bowl aspirations, the emergence of another dynamic offensive weapon is a welcome development, and TeSlaa looks ready to deliver.