The Detroit Lions are off to a strong 3-1 start, but their impressive early-season surge hasn’t come without challenges. The biggest concern? A battered secondary that’s rapidly thinning out due to injuries. With D.J. Reed sidelined and rookie Terrion Arnold battling a groin issue, head coach Dan Campbell and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn are now facing a tough question — how long can Detroit’s defense hold up before reinforcements are needed?
Enter Stephon Gilmore, the veteran cornerback whose name has quickly surfaced as a potential fix to Detroit’s growing problem. The former Defensive Player of the Year remains a free agent, and with his elite experience and proven reliability, Gilmore could bring both leadership and stability to a Lions secondary struggling to stay healthy.
The Lions’ defense, anchored by stars like Aidan Hutchinson and Brian Branch, has been a key factor in their early success. But recent injuries have exposed the lack of depth at cornerback — a weakness that opposing offenses could soon exploit. Detroit’s next few games will feature matchups against pass-heavy teams, making the situation even more urgent.
Adding Gilmore would make sense for several reasons. Beyond his ability to lock down top receivers, his veteran presence could be invaluable to young defensive backs like Arnold and Kerby Joseph. Plus, he brings playoff experience — something Detroit’s rising team could benefit from as they chase their first deep postseason run in decades.
While no move has been made yet, league insiders suggest the Lions are at least considering options to reinforce their secondary. Whether that means a midseason signing or a potential trade remains to be seen.
One thing is clear: the Lions have the heart and firepower to contend — but if their defense can’t stay healthy, that dream could fade fast. And if there’s anyone capable of stabilizing the situation, Stephon Gilmore might just be the perfect late-season addition to keep Detroit roaring.
Lions Eye Stephon Gilmore as Cornerback Injuries Pile Up — Is He the Missing Piece?
