Top Cornerback Targets for Detroit Lions in Trades and Free Agency
The Detroit Lions Face Cornerback Conundrum Amidst Injury Challenges
The Detroit Lions are grappling with a significant injury crisis in their cornerback lineup as the 2023 NFL season progresses. After earlier setbacks that sidelined players like Ennis Rakestraw Jr. in training camp and D.J. Reed during last week’s game against the Cleveland Browns, the Lions have now lost two more cornerbacks this past week. Khalil Dorsey’s injury during training and Terrion Arnold’s shoulder issue sustained against the Cincinnati Bengals have left the team’s defensive backfield in a precarious position. Head Coach Dan Campbell noted that both players are expected to be unavailable for an extended period.
Deep Dive into the Cornerback Shortage
Going into the season, cornerback was projected as one of the Detroit Lions’ strong points, but after just five games, the team is relying on backup players. This shortage is becoming increasingly concerning, as the Lions are on the brink of having a completely depleted cornerback roster. The current situation has prompted the coaching staff to consider potential additions to bolster their defensive lineup.
Assessing Current Roster and Potential Additions
As of now, Terrion Arnold and Khalil Dorsey remain on the active roster, although a move to the Injured Reserve could happen shortly. The current active cornerbacks consist of:
- Avonte Maddox
- Amik Robertson
- Rock Ya-Sin
Given the current injuries, the Lions’ depth chart has thinned considerably, leaving them vulnerable. To secure the cornerback position, at least one player from the practice squad is expected to be promoted. Players like Tre Flowers, who has prior starting experience in the NFL, could be prime candidates due to their familiarity with the team and ability to step in when called upon.
Exploring Free Agent Options
The Lions have several potential free agents to consider, each with varying degrees of experience and past performance. Key players include:
- C.J. Gardner-Johnson
- Steven Gilmore
- Jerry Jacobs
- Craig James
- Emmanuel Moseley
- Cameron Sutton
While these athletes were formerly associated with the Lions, their current situations and past performance may influence the team’s decisions. The management might also contemplate trading for cornerbacks currently on other NFL rosters if the opportunity arises.
Targets Among Cornerbacks on Other Teams
In addition to free agents, the Lions could look to acquire cornerbacks who have recently underperformed but have the potential to regain their form. Notable players include:
- Greg Newsome (Cleveland Browns)
- Riley Moss (Denver Broncos)
- L’Jarius Sneed (Tennessee Titans)
- Tariq Woolen (Seattle Seahawks)
The potential for “buying low” on these players may present an attractive option for the Lions, who must consider cost alongside performance history before any acquisitions.
Potential Practice Squad Poaching
If the Lions seek quick solutions, they might explore the possibility of poaching from practice squads of other teams. Some candidates include:
- Beanie Bishop (Pittsburgh Steelers)
- Bryce Hall (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
- Mike Hilton (Indianapolis Colts)
- Nik Needham (New York Jets)
- Ambry Thomas (Philadelphia Eagles)
These players could provide necessary depth without the need for a trade, making them appealing options for an injury-stricken roster.
As the Detroit Lions navigate their current cornerback challenges, forward-thinking strategies and careful evaluations will be vital. The decisions made in the coming days could greatly impact the team’s performance as they aim to maintain momentum in the 2023 season. General Manager Brad Holmes faces a critical challenge: enhancing the squad while balancing financial and draft capital considerations to bolster the team’s Super Bowl aspirations.
