The Detroit Lions’ secondary has taken some significant hits in recent weeks, with one observer speculating that the team may require some veteran help in the playoffs. The Lions placed cornerbacks Carlton Davis III and Khalil Dorsey on injured reserve, dealing a severe blow to their already depleted secondary. While the Lions have possibilities on the roster to help fill the void, Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder said that they may need to turn to free agency to acquire more depth.
Lions Could Add Accomplished Veteran
Though the Lions are presently the NFC’s top seed, they will not be able to slow down and rest players over the final two weeks of the season. The Lions wrap out the season with a game against the Minnesota Vikings, which could determine which club receives a postseason bye and which is dispatched to the wild-card round.
Holder proposed that the Lions look for a reliable experienced cornerback to help them through the important stretch and playoffs. “At this point, the team should look at any available veterans to offer the secondary more options heading into the playoffs. A couple of names to consider are Patrick Peterson and Xavien Howard,” Holder stated.
Peterson spent the 2023 season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, starting 16 games and collecting 42 total tackles with 11 passes defensed. The eight-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro spent the previous two seasons with the Vikings, providing Lions head coach Dan Campbell a thorough look at his ability.
Lions Considering All Options on Defense
The Lions also have options in the building to improve their secondary. As Tim Twentyman of the team’s official website reported, Campbell hinted that veteran cornerback Emmanuel Moseley could climb up the depth chart. Moseley has been a healthy scratch over the last few weeks. Twentyman said that the Lions might also look to Brian Branch, who can play many places in the secondary.
“The potential to move Brian Branch out of the safety spot and into a cornerback role is something Campbell said they’ll talk about too. Amik Robertson could also slide outside, according to Campbell,” Twentyman stated.
Twentyman also mentioned that the Lions might be able to rely on a returning player. Twentyman said, “The Lions intend to begin Ifeatu Melifonwu’s practice window this week, and perhaps he can be ready to play on Sunday, though Campbell stated he’ll have to wait until he sees him practice to make that determination.” “Campbell stated that they’re willing to see if Melifonwu can fill a variety of roles in the box upon his return.”
A crucial member from the Lions’ run to the NFC Championship game the previous season might return, according to Jeff Risdon of USA Today’s Lions Wire. Risdon noted, “The most desirable option on the free agent market is old friend Jerry Jacobs.” During his three seasons with Detroit, Jacobs started 29 games, including 12 last season. Despite working out with a number of teams, including the Broncos just last week, he has not found a home and his coverage work was patchy. Jacobs is a good contender to return to Detroit because he is familiar with the defensive scheme and at least offers solid outside run support.