Carlton Davis’ Future in Detroit: Will the Lions Be Able to Keep Their Lockdown Corner?
Carlton Davis made a strong first impression in Detroit. When he first met with the local media last March, he boldly claimed he would be the “lockdown corner” the Lions had been missing. He then backed up his words with an impressive season, allowing just a 77.0 passer rating, a 55.3% completion rate, and recording two interceptions, 11 pass breakups, and two fumble recoveries in 13 games.
However, Davis’ season was cut short due to a broken jaw, adding to an unfortunate pattern—he has missed at least four games in each of the past four seasons due to injuries. As he now enters free agency, his durability concerns could impact his market value, but there’s no denying that he’s one of the top cornerbacks available. His skill set, particularly his ability to thrive in man coverage and his willingness to play physically against the run, makes him a highly desirable target.
The Lions would love to bring him back on a multi-year deal, but Davis, who turns 29 this year, will likely test the market to see if another team offers him a more lucrative contract. With several teams in need of a high-quality cornerback, Detroit may have to fend off some serious competition.
The Biggest Threats to the Lions Keeping Davis
While many teams could express interest, six stand out as the biggest threats to Detroit’s chances of retaining Davis.
1. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers’ defense is built on toughness and physicality, making Davis an ideal fit. Pittsburgh ran Cover 1 at the fourth-highest rate in the NFL last season, a scheme Davis has already proven himself in. With around $40.7 million in cap space, they have the financial flexibility to make a strong offer.
2. San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers may prioritize re-signing Charvarius Ward, but if he leaves in free agency, Davis would be a natural replacement. San Francisco’s new (and returning) defensive coordinator, Robert Saleh, heavily used Cover 1 during his time with the Jets, which fits Davis’ skill set perfectly. With over $43 million in cap space, the 49ers could make a competitive bid.
3. New York Jets
Davis was a perfect fit in Detroit’s defensive system under Aaron Glenn, and now that Glenn is the Jets’ new head coach, he may push to bring Davis to New York. If the Jets move on from D.J. Reed, Davis could step right into a starting role opposite Sauce Gardner.
4. Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders are looking to upgrade their secondary, and with Antonio Pierce now in place as the full-time head coach, they could prioritize adding a physical cornerback like Davis. With a defense that already features pass rushers like Maxx Crosby, adding a true lockdown corner would make them even more formidable.
5. Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings are in dire need of defensive reinforcements, and their aggressive defensive coordinator, Brian Flores, could push for a player like Davis. While Minnesota’s cap situation isn’t ideal, they might be willing to get creative to secure a top-tier cornerback.
6. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens love physical, aggressive defensive backs, and Davis fits their mold perfectly. With Marlon Humphrey battling injuries in recent seasons, Baltimore could look to pair him with another high-caliber corner to maintain their defensive dominance.
Could the Lions Pivot to Another Free Agent?
If Davis becomes too expensive, Detroit may need to look elsewhere. One potential alternative is D.J. Reed, who is likely leaving the Jets in free agency. Reed, despite not having an interception last season, held quarterbacks to a 58.3% completion rate and has consistently been one of the league’s more reliable cover corners.
Analysts have pointed to Reed as an ideal fit for Detroit’s defensive scheme, particularly with the promotion of Kelvin Sheppard to defensive coordinator. If the Lions don’t want to overpay for Davis, shifting their attention to Reed could be a viable strategy.
What’s Next for the Lions?
Detroit general manager Brad Holmes has proven adept at making quick adjustments in free agency, so if Davis does leave, expect the Lions to act swiftly. Whether they retain Davis or pivot to another top corner, this offseason will be crucial for Detroit’s defense.
Would you rather see the Lions invest heavily in keeping Davis, or should they explore other options?
Top 6 Contenders for Carlton Davis If He Hits Free Agency in 2025
