The Detroit Lions are on the lookout for a new top cornerback after Carlton Davis decided to sign a three-year contract with the New England Patriots. The deal, reportedly worth $60 million with $34.5 million guaranteed, will see Davis reunite with former Lions defensive line coach Terrell Williams, who is now the Patriots’ defensive coordinator under Mike Vrabel.
Davis, who was acquired from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a trade for a third-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, quickly became a key figure in the Lions’ secondary. His physicality and versatility made him an ideal match-up against top wide receivers, earning praise from stars like Ja’Marr Chase, who called him the toughest cornerback he’s faced.
Despite a solid season in Detroit, Davis suffered a fractured jaw during Week 15 of the 2024 season, but still managed two interceptions, 11 passes defensed, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries in 14 games. The Lions made a late push to retain Davis, but ultimately, the Patriots won out.
With Davis now gone, the Lions’ cornerback depth chart includes Terrion Arnold, Amik Robertson, and Ennis Rakestraw as the top options, while free agents like Kindle Vildor and Khalil Dorsey could potentially return. Detroit’s secondary will need to fill this significant gap heading into the 2025 season.
Carlton Davis Chooses New England Patriots Over Detroit Lions
