The Detroit Lions are facing significant challenges in their cornerback lineup following a wave of injuries. With key players sidelined, the team is already looking at potential trade and free agency options to bolster their roster.
Injuries Impacting the Cornerback Position
The Lions recently lost cornerbacks Khalil Dorsey and Terrion Arnold, who are expected to miss extended time due to injuries. These injuries come after the team already dealt with Ennis Rakestraw Jr. and D.J. Reed earlier in the season. Coach Dan Campbell indicated that the situation is dire, as the team has turned to their reserve players far earlier than anticipated.
Current Cornerback Status
- Active Roster:
- Terrion Arnold (injured)
- Khalil Dorsey (injured)
- Avonte Maddox
- Amik Robertson
- Rock Ya-Sin
- Practice Squad:
- Tre Flowers
- Erick Hallett
- Nick Whiteside
With the injuries to Arnold and Dorsey, the Lions may need to make a roster move to add more depth. Tre Flowers, with 44 NFL starts, is a strong candidate to be elevated from the practice squad. He was recently brought back to the roster after being signed in early October.
Exploring Trade and Free Agency Options
The Lions must consider various avenues for acquiring cornerback help as they navigate this difficult period. General Manager Brad Holmes faces the challenge of identifying players who can immediately contribute without significantly impacting the team’s salary cap.
Potential Cornerback Targets
The following lists highlight potential trade and free agency targets for the Lions:
Free Agents
- C.J. Gardner-Johnson
- Steven Gilmore
- Jerry Jacobs
- Craig James
- Emmanuel Moseley
- Cameron Sutton
Players on Other Rosters
- Carlton Davis (New England Patriots)
- Chase Lucas (San Francisco 49ers)
- Kindle Vildor (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
While some players have connections to the Lions, many have faced issues such as injuries or diminished roles on their current teams. For instance, Gardner-Johnson and Sutton have complicated histories with the organization, while Moseley has struggled with health issues.
Targeting Potential Trade Candidates
The Lions could explore acquiring players who are underperforming but have the potential for a rebound. Notable names include:
- Greg Newsome (Cleveland Browns)
- Riley Moss (Denver Broncos)
- L’Jarius Sneed (Tennessee Titans)
- Tariq Woolen (Seattle Seahawks)
Newsome and Woolen have had off years, but their past performances suggest they could be valuable projects for the Lions.
Poaching from Practice Squads
Besides trades, the Lions can also look to poach talent from practice squads. Below are some candidates:
- Beanie Bishop (Pittsburgh Steelers)
- Bryce Hall (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
- Mike Hilton (Indianapolis Colts)
- Nik Needham (New York Jets)
- Ambry Thomas (Philadelphia Eagles)
Each of these players offers experience and can be acquired with minimal cost, making them appealing options as the Lions seek to strengthen their cornerback depth.
In summary, the Detroit Lions must navigate a challenging cornerback situation as injuries mount. By exploring trades, targeting free agents, and considering practice squad poaches, the team seeks to secure a competitive defensive lineup as they aim for a successful season.
