The Detroit Lions face numerous questions this offseason following their disappointing divisional-round loss to the Washington Commanders. General manager Brad Holmes will need to address roster weaknesses that were exposed in the playoffs and could be forced to make difficult decisions along the way.
According to Over the Cap, the Lions are projected to have approximately $46.8 million in cap space this offseason. While Detroit has ample room to make free-agent signings, the team might consider creating additional cap space by cutting certain players.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report has identified cornerback Amik Robertson, who signed a two-year, $9.2 million contract with Detroit last offseason, as a potential cut candidate.
“The Lions’ pile of cornerback injuries has given Amik Robertson the chance to shine as a cornerback who can play on the inside and outside,” Knox noted.
“The offseason will give the Lions a chance to re-evaluate the whole position group, though. Carlton Davis is set to become a free agent, and the Lions have young talents in Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. It’s possible the Lions may see the $4.8 million they could clear by cutting Robertson as worth dropping the defensive back,” he added.
Robertson started four games during the regular season, allowing a completion rate of just 56.9% on 79 targets. Unfortunately, the veteran suffered a broken humerus in the first quarter of the playoff loss to the Commanders but is expected to be ready for offseason workouts.
Cutting Robertson would save the Lions approximately $4.8 million in cap space while incurring only $1.65 million in dead money, per Over the Cap.
Although freeing up nearly $5 million by releasing Robertson seems like an easy decision, Brad Holmes should weigh the value the 26-year-old brings to the team. Robertson proved to be a reliable depth option this season and emerged as a key locker-room leader.
Rather than cutting ties with Robertson, Detroit should explore alternative ways to create cap space and retain him for the 2025 season.
