Detroit Lions Free Agency Preview: 3 Cornerbacks to Watch
The Detroit Lions invested heavily in their secondary during the 2024 NFL Draft, selecting Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw, but their cornerback room still has some uncertainty heading into free agency. With Carlton Davis, Kindle Vildor, Khalil Dorsey, and Emmanuel Moseley all set to hit the open market, Detroit will likely be looking to add experience to its young core.
Here’s a look at three potential free-agent targets for the Lions:
D.J. Reed (New York Jets)
✅ Strengths: Reliable starter, strong footwork, high football IQ
❌ Weaknesses: Undersized (5’9”), occasional penalty issues
Reed has been a key piece of the Jets’ defense, starting alongside Sauce Gardner and proving his ability to take on No. 1 receivers. His experience and leadership could help Detroit’s young secondary develop. The Lions will have to decide if they’re willing to meet his $15 million per year market value, but he could be the team’s best bet for a high-end starter.
Mike Hilton (Cincinnati Bengals)
✅ Strengths: Versatile DB (slot, outside, safety), strong against the run
❌ Weaknesses: Struggles in man coverage
Hilton has been a consistent presence in the slot for years and brings the added ability to play safety if needed. He’s a physical, aggressive player who thrives at the line of scrimmage, racking up 12 tackles-for-loss in 2024. At 31 years old, he’ll likely seek a multi-year deal worth around $12 million per season.
Eric Stokes (Green Bay Packers)
✅ Strengths: Elite speed (4.31 40-yard dash), high upside
❌ Weaknesses: Inconsistent, injury concerns
A former first-round pick, Stokes has struggled to stay healthy and live up to expectations in Green Bay. However, at 6’1” with elite athleticism, he could be an intriguing depth piece with starting potential. If the Lions see him as a developmental option, they could land him on a short-term deal worth $2-3 million per year.
Final Thoughts
Detroit has a promising young core in Arnold, Rakestraw, and Amik Robertson, but adding a veteran presence would solidify the secondary. Reed offers the best mix of experience and talent, Hilton brings versatility, and Stokes could be a low-risk, high-reward signing.
Which direction will the Lions go?
Lions Eye Secondary Help: 3 CB Targets for 2025 Free Agency
