Lions to host Darrius Heyward-Bey for visit

The Detroit Lions have scheduled a visit with free-agent wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey, according to the Free Press' Dave Birkett. Heyward-Bey was released by the Oakland Raiders shortly after NFL free agency opened a couple weeks ago, and his visit with the Lions is scheduled for Wednesday.

When the Raiders released Heyward-Bey, many wondered if the Lions would pursue him. They are in need of a No. 2 type of wide receiver who can stretch the field opposite Calvin Johnson, and although he's had his fair share of struggles in the NFL, Heyward-Bey seems like he could occupy that role for the Lions. Now that we know Heyward-Bey is visiting, it does appear that the Lions are taking a look at signing him.

After being drafted seventh overall back in 2009, Heyward-Bey spent four seasons in Oakland. Last season, he caught 41 passes for 606 yards and 5 touchdowns. The year before that, he recorded 64 catches for 975 yards and 4 touchdowns. Heyward-Bey is not a Pro Bowl type of wide receiver by any means, but he seems like he could excel in the Lions' offense.

Heyward-Bey's visit to Detroit comes after he visited the Indianapolis Colts, so if the Lions do want to sign him, look for them to try and get a deal done before he leaves town.