Lions would like Boldin to return if they can do a deal

Phoenix – The Detroit Lions are publicly saying they’d like to bring veteran wide receiver Anquan Boldin back in 2017, but there’s an underlying tone of uncertainty the two sides will get a deal it done.

Signed just prior to the start of training camp last season, Boldin made a significant impact in his first season with Detroit. Operating primarily out of the slot, the 14-year veteran caught 67 passes for 584 yards and a team-leading eight touchdowns.

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“I think Anquan, he did a great job for us this year, really stepped in and provided a real reliable target for (quarterback) Matthew (Stafford) and had 60-plus catches this year,” general manager Bob Quinn said. “So he’s definitely an option. We haven’t made any decision on that one way or the other, but he’s still out there.”

Boldin, who had been on the fence about playing in 2017, made the decision to come back earlier this month, personally informing Lions coach Jim Caldwell. Like Quinn, Caldwell just isn’t certain the receiver will be suiting up in Honolulu blue.

“Not real sure, you never say never,” Caldwell said.

One of the most productive receivers in NFL history, Boldin will have an opportunity to climb the rankings next season. If he remains healthy, and produces at a similar level to last season, he should crack the top-10 in receiving yardage while rising as high as fourth on the all-time receptions list.

jdrogers@detnews.com

Twitter: @justin_rogers