By Moses Joshua 
With the secondary thinning out, Brad Holmes could be eyeing reinforcements before the deadline
The Detroit Lions have shown plenty of grit and offensive power in their 4-2 start, keeping them squarely in the NFC North title chase. But even amid the early success, there’s one glaring concern that could keep this team from reaching its full potential — the cornerback position.
With D.J. Reed and Terrion Arnold battling injuries and the backups struggling to find consistency, general manager Brad Holmes may need to explore another midseason trade before the November 4 trade deadline. According to Pro Football Focus, the Lions are among several playoff hopefuls in the market for help at cornerback. Here are three names that stand out as possible fits.
1. Tariq Woolen, Seattle Seahawks
Once seen as one of the most dynamic young corners in the league, Tariq Woolen’s 2025 campaign has been rocky. His 41.1 PFF coverage grade ranks among the lowest in the NFL, and he’s allowing 14.1 yards per catch with a 23.8% missed tackle rate.
So why should Detroit be interested? One word: upside.
At 6-foot-4 with rare speed, Woolen still possesses elite physical traits that can’t be coached. Under defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, the Lions have turned raw defenders into reliable contributors, and Woolen could thrive behind a front seven that already ranks 9th in total defense and 5th in takeaways.
With Seattle deep at corner and sitting at 4-2, a mid-round pick might be enough to pry Woolen loose. For Holmes, this could be another smart, low-risk move with high potential reward.
2. Rasul Douglas, Miami Dolphins
If Detroit prefers a proven veteran, Rasul Douglas should be high on the list. Even after joining the Miami Dolphins late in the offseason, Douglas has quickly become one of their most dependable defenders. He holds a 77.9 PFF coverage grade with three pass breakups across 161 coverage snaps.
Lions fans remember Douglas well from his time with the Green Bay Packers, where his physical, press-heavy playstyle regularly frustrated NFC North opponents. That same style would fit seamlessly into Detroit’s aggressive defensive scheme.
Douglas might not be a long-term solution, but he’s a battle-tested pro who can stabilize the secondary immediately. With Miami’s season unraveling at 1-5, the Dolphins could be open to dealing him for a mid-round pick. For a Lions team eyeing a deep playoff run, that’s a call worth making.
3. Alontae Taylor, New Orleans Saints
The most intriguing—and possibly the most valuable—option is Alontae Taylor of the New Orleans Saints. On a struggling New Orleans team, Taylor has quietly elevated his play, posting a 69.5 coverage grade, his best mark yet.
What makes Taylor appealing to Detroit is his versatility. He’s capable of lining up both on the outside and in the slot, giving the Lions flexibility with their defensive packages. That adaptability would be invaluable for a team dealing with multiple injuries at cornerback.
The Saints have shown a willingness to move solid defensive backs before, and at 25 years old, Taylor is entering his prime. If Holmes wants to secure a long-term piece rather than a rental, this could be the move that makes the most sense.
The Bottom Line
The Lions’ defense has been formidable — top 10 in total defense and 5th in takeaways — but the secondary remains thin. Reinforcements at cornerback could turn a strong defense into a championship-caliber one.
Whether it’s Woolen’s upside, Douglas’ reliability, or Taylor’s versatility, Detroit has options to strengthen its weakest unit. And if Brad Holmes has shown anything as a GM, it’s that he isn’t afraid to be bold when the moment calls for it.
Don’t be surprised if one of these cornerbacks is wearing Honolulu Blue before the deadline hits.