DETROIT — The sting of Detroit’s 45-31 playoff loss to the Commanders still lingers for Terrion Arnold. But instead of dwelling on the disappointment, the Lions’ rookie cornerback has turned it into fuel for what he vows will be a standout second season.
Walking into the team facility the day after that defeat in January, Arnold made himself a promise: to come back stronger, smarter, and ready to lead the Lions’ secondary. The 24th overall pick of the 2024 draft showed flashes of brilliance last year, but he knows there’s more to prove.
“It was nothing but experience,” Arnold said at locker cleanout. “I had to go out there and challenge WR1s right away, and I’m young. But I know I’ll be the best corner in the league pretty soon. I’m very confident.”
That confidence is exactly what GM Brad Holmes wants to see. Holmes praised Arnold for his aggressive mentality and growth, noting that although the rookie faced rough patches early, he settled in as the season progressed.
“Those snaps he played are going to serve him well going forward,” Holmes said. “He’s wired the right way. He’s long, athletic, instinctive, and tough. And all those reps are only going to boost his confidence even more.”
Arnold’s rookie numbers back up his potential: nine pass breakups, third-most among NFL rookies last year. While he tied for the league lead with seven defensive pass interference penalties, five came in the first month. After that, he cleaned up his game dramatically.
NFL Next Gen Stats show his progress:
Weeks 1-11: 51 targets, 32 completions allowed (62.7%), 330 yards, QBR of 100.9.
Weeks 12 through the divisional round: 40 targets, 21 completions (52.5%), 308 yards, QBR of 86.3.
Arnold knows what went wrong early: “It wasn’t about being beat, it was just turning my head and locating the ball,” he said. “Those are things you can fix.”
Veteran corner Amik Robertson believes Arnold is the key to elevating Detroit’s secondary this year — and with training camp opening July 20, Arnold is determined to seize that opportunity.
“It was never a talent issue,” Arnold said. “It was inexperience. But the only way to get better is to be out there.”
Lions’ Terrion Arnold Poised for Breakout After Roller-Coaster Rookie Year
