Cornerback Position Identified as Lions’ Biggest Roster Decision for 2025 Offseason
The Detroit Lions’ pass defense struggled in 2023, ranking near the bottom of the league in passing yards allowed per game (247.4) despite holding opposing quarterbacks to a decent 63.1% completion rate. Heading into the 2024 offseason, the Lions set out to improve their cornerback position, making significant moves. They traded for Carlton Davis, signed Amik Robertson, and used their first two draft picks on cornerbacks Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. However, one year later, the issue still remains unresolved.
Pro Football Focus’ Bradley Locker highlighted the cornerback position as the Lions’ biggest offseason decision. While the defense improved slightly by lowering their completion percentage allowed to 61.1%, they remained near the bottom in terms of passing yards allowed per game (244 yards) and yards per completion (11.8).
Davis, the team’s best cornerback, is set to test free agency. The big question is whether Arnold and Rakestraw can step up. Arnold had a mixed rookie season, allowing 13.2 yards per completion, although he limited the completion percentage to a decent 55.6%. Rakestraw, on the other hand, had limited opportunities, playing just 46 defensive snaps as a rookie.
To fill the gap, the Lions may need to bring in a proven veteran cornerback, possibly re-signing Davis or targeting free agents like D.J. Reed. Trading for a reliable cornerback could also be an option. Adding another rookie to the mix, however, could just add more uncertainty to an already unpredictable position.
The cornerback decision will be crucial in determining whether the Lions can make a legitimate Super Bowl push in 2025.
2025 Offseason’s Biggest Decision for Lions: What to Do at Cornerback
