By Blessing 
Lions Face Tough Terrion Arnold Decision After the Bye
The Detroit Lions have earned a much-needed break heading into their bye week. Sitting at 5-2, they can relax and watch from afar as the Pittsburgh Steelers take on the Green Bay Packers — a matchup that could help Detroit climb back atop the NFC North.
It’s been a strong start overall, but not without frustration. Jameson Williams’s inconsistency has been one of the biggest disappointments, while rookie defensive tackle Tyleik Williams has yet to make his mark in the middle. Yet, the concern surrounding cornerback Terrion Arnold feels different.
Unlike the two Williamses — one locked in with a long-term contract, the other still developing — Arnold’s future feels uncertain. His second season has been bumpy, and the Lions may soon face a difficult decision as the trade deadline nears after the bye.
Lions Could Be Forced to Trade if Arnold’s Struggles Persist
Selected in the first round of the 2024 draft, Arnold entered the year with lofty expectations. The arrival of veteran DJ Reed was supposed to guide his growth, and defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard’s continuity with Aaron Glenn’s system should have helped him thrive in Year 2.
But so far, that breakout hasn’t come.
According to Pro Football Focus, Arnold has allowed 18 receptions for 283 yards and one touchdown, along with three pass breakups on 29 targets. He’s still searching for his first career interception, and his 49.3 overall grade ranks 104th out of 118 qualifying cornerbacks this season.
Arnold revealed that he’s been playing at less than 100%, and injuries may have slowed him down. But Sheppard has made it clear that “it’s not an excuse for his poor performance.” If Arnold continues to struggle after the bye, Detroit could be forced to look for help at cornerback.
Two names that could surface as trade targets are Roger McCreary of the Tennessee Titans and Alontae Taylor of the New Orleans Saints. Either move would likely shift Arnold to a backup role and raise new questions about his long-term fit in Detroit.
That’s the crossroads facing the Lions — trust a young player to rebound or act fast before the defense’s weak spot costs them down the stretch. Both paths carry risk, both have consequences, and both could shape Detroit’s season — and Arnold’s future — for years to come.
Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell won’t take that decision lightly. As the Lions continue their quest for a Super Bowl run, every
roster move matters.