By Sunday 
When it rains, it pours — and right now, Detroit’s secondary is standing in a monsoon. With multiple cornerbacks sidelined, the Lions have made a practical (and slightly nostalgic) move, signing veteran Arthur Maulet to their practice squad.
A Familiar Face Returns to the Dan Campbell Tree
If the name sounds familiar, it should. Maulet, 32, first crossed paths with Dan Campbell years ago in New Orleans, when both were part of the Saints organization. Back then, Maulet was a hungry undrafted rookie grinding for special teams snaps. Fast-forward eight seasons, and he’s a seasoned vet with a reputation for toughness, experience, and that gritty “get-it-done” mentality Campbell loves.
Since those early Saints days, Maulet has seen plenty of NFL turf — from the Jets and Steelers to the Ravens. Across that time, he’s played in 80+ games, notching interceptions, deflections, and nearly 200 tackles. Not bad for a player who entered the league without a draft card to his name.
The Lions’ Cornerback Chaos
The Lions’ decision wasn’t just nostalgic — it was necessary. With D.J. Reed and Terrion Arnold both sidelined and Khalil Dorsey also out, Detroit’s cornerback room has been running on fumes. As of this week, the only healthy options on the 53-man roster are Amik Robertson, Rock Ya-Sin, and Avonte Maddox — three men trying to hold down an entire backfield.
Behind them? A few depth names — Erick Hallett, Trey Flowers, and Nick Whiteside — but not much in terms of experience. That’s where Maulet comes in.
The “Nickel” Factor Detroit Needs
Standing at 5-foot-10, 190 pounds, Maulet has made a living playing the nickel corner role — that all-important spot between coverage and run support. He’s known as a reliable tackler and an aggressive presence near the line of scrimmage, which could come in handy against speed-heavy teams like the Chiefs and Buccaneers in the coming weeks.
While he’s not a flashy signing, this move screams smart football. Maulet knows his assignments, stays disciplined, and brings something that’s hard to coach: veteran instincts.
A Calm Move in the Chaos
Detroit’s secondary has been in survival mode lately, but this signing feels like a steadying hand amid the storm. If Arnold and Reed return soon as expected, Maulet might not see major action — but if things stay unpredictable, don’t be surprised if he’s suiting up sooner rather than later.
Desperate times call for smart moves — and this one just might help the Lions hold the line until reinforcements arrive.