Detroit Faces Secondary Questions Heading Into 2025 Offseason

The Detroit Lions made significant moves to bolster their cornerback unit in 2024, but as they head into the 2025 NFL offseason, the team once again finds itself in need of reinforcements. With Carlton Davis hitting free agency and the team’s rookie cornerbacks still developing, analysts believe Detroit should target an under-the-radar option to stabilize its secondary.

One name that has emerged as a potential fit is New Orleans Saints cornerback Paulson Adebo, a player who has flown under the radar but could offer both reliability and value for the Lions.

Detroit’s Cornerback Conundrum

Last offseason, the Lions aggressively addressed their defensive backfield. They:

• Signed Amik Robertson to a two-year deal.
• Traded for Carlton Davis from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
• Drafted top prospects Terrion Arnold (Alabama) and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (Missouri) with their first two selections.

Despite these moves, questions remain. Davis’ contract has expired, leaving a gap in the starting lineup. Meanwhile, Arnold and Rakestraw, though promising, did not immediately establish themselves as dependable starters. That leaves the Lions searching for a veteran who can contribute immediately—without requiring a blockbuster contract.

Paulson Adebo: A Hidden Gem in Free Agency?

CBS Sports’ Jordan Dajani recently highlighted one free agent each NFL team should pursue, and for the Lions, he pointed to Paulson Adebo as the ideal target. While names like D.J. Reed and Carlton Davis have dominated headlines, Adebo has quietly established himself as a high-impact defender when healthy.

The biggest knock against Adebo is durability—he played only seven games in 2024 due to a broken femur. However, his production before the injury was eye-catching:

• 52 total tackles
• 3 interceptions
• 10 passes defended

In his last full season (2023), Adebo recorded 76 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 18 pass breakups, while holding opposing quarterbacks to a 55% completion rate when targeted. His blend of coverage skills and physical tackling ability would make him a strong fit for Detroit’s defense.

A Smart, Cost-Effective Signing?

One of the most appealing aspects of Adebo is his potential value in free agency. Due to his injury-shortened 2024 campaign, he may not command the same price tag as other top-tier corners. That could allow the Lions to land a quality starter at a bargain, while still maintaining financial flexibility for other roster needs.

Detroit’s aggressive approach to rebuilding its secondary last year proved that the team is committed to improving its pass defense. If Adebo can stay healthy, he could be the perfect solution to fill the void left by Carlton Davis—without breaking the bank.

As free agency approaches, all eyes will be on how Detroit chooses to reinforce its defensive backfield.