The San Francisco 49ers today announced they have agreed to a trade with the Detroit Lions, acquiring WR Jeremy Kerley in exchange for G Brandon Thomas.
Kerley (5-9, 188) was originally drafted in the fifth round (153rd overall) of the 2011 NFL Draft by the New York Jets. In five seasons with the Jets (2011-15), he played in 74 games (24 starts) and registered 182 receptions for 2,225 yards (12.2 average) and nine touchdowns. He led the Jets in total receptions and receiving yards during his time with the team. Kerley has also returned 134 punts for 1,250 yards and one touchdown during his career. In 2015, he registered a career-high 411 punt return yards, which ranked second in the NFL (RB Darren Sproles, Phi. – 446). Kerley signed with the Lions on March 21, 2016 following his release from the Jets on March 9, 2016.
A 27-year-old native of Hutto, TX, Kerley appeared in 50 games (21 starts) at Texas Christian University. He finished his career with 120 receptions for 1,299 yards and 12 touchdowns to go along with 63 rushing attempts for 306 yards and eight touchdowns. He also returned 94 punts for 1,299 yards (13.8 average) and two touchdowns as well as 37 kickoff returns for 1,006 (27.2 average). As a senior in 2010, he earned First-Team All-Mountain West Conference honors as a returner and Second-Team honors as a wide receiver, in addition to being named MWC Special Teams Player of the Year.
Kerley will wear No. 14.
Thomas (6-3, 317) was originally selected by San Francisco in the third round (100th overall) of the 2014 NFL Draft. After spending his entire rookie season on the Reserve/Non-Football Injury List, he was inactive for each of the team’s 16 games in 2015.
A 25-year-old native of Spartanburg, SC, Thomas attended Clemson University, where he appeared in 49 games.
