The Detroit Lions are keeping one of their key special teams contributors in the fold, re-signing cornerback Khalil Dorsey for the 2025 season. While contract details weren’t disclosed, the move signals Detroit’s continued confidence in Dorsey, who has carved out a valuable role as a core special teamer and depth piece in the secondary.
Dorsey, an undrafted free agent in 2020, started his NFL journey with the Baltimore Ravens before joining the Lions’ practice squad late in 2022. Over the past two seasons, he has become a staple of Detroit’s special teams unit, playing a combined 520 snaps in 2023 and 2024, primarily as a gunner and jammer on punt teams. Special teams coordinator Dave Fipp has praised Dorsey’s impact, calling him “an incredible player for us” and highlighting his contributions in film reviews throughout last season.
However, Dorsey’s momentum was halted in Week 15 against the Buffalo Bills when he suffered a severe leg injury, breaking both his tibia and fibula. Emergency surgery followed, and while initial recovery projections ranged from four to six months, Dorsey remains determined to return at full strength. Speaking to the Detroit Free Press in January, he acknowledged the challenge but expressed confidence in his ability to bounce back.
With the Lions bringing him back, it’s clear they expect him to be a contributor once he’s healthy. His return also adds to the growing depth in Detroit’s cornerback room, which has been bolstered by the recent signing of veteran Rock Ya-Sin. The Lions now have a solid group at the position, including D.J. Reed, Terrion Arnold, Amik Robertson, Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Stantley Thomas-Oliver, Ya-Sin, and Dorsey.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Dorsey’s recovery timeline. If he can return to form, he’ll continue to be a vital piece of Detroit’s special teams unit while providing depth at cornerback for a team with playoff aspirations.
