The Detroit Lions have shifted their attention to the 2025 offseason after a heartbreaking loss to the Washington Commanders in the divisional round of the playoffs.
With over 30 pending free agents to evaluate, one of the most significant decisions involves cornerback Carlton Davis. Acquired in a 2024 trade with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to fortify the secondary, Davis delivered an impressive debut season in Detroit. He posted a career-best passer rating allowed of 77.0 and a 55.3% completion rate allowed, marking one of the finest performances of his career.
In a recent piece highlighting ideal landing spots for top defensive free agents, Mason Cameron of Pro Football Focus identified the New York Jets as the best fit for Davis in 2025.
“Reuniting with former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, now the Jets’ head coach, could be the perfect move for Davis,” Cameron wrote. “Glenn’s aggressive schemes, which often rely on press coverage, play to Davis’ strengths. He allowed only seven open targets in press situations despite playing a significant number of press snaps, showcasing his ability to thrive in a physical, one-on-one role.”
The Lions’ willingness to retain Davis may hinge on their confidence in Ennis Rakestraw Jr., their 2024 second-round draft pick. Rakestraw could step into a starting role in 2025, either on the boundary or in the slot. Detroit also has Amik Robertson under contract, who could fill any remaining vacancy depending on where the Lions position Rakestraw.
Elevating Rakestraw to a starting role would offer significant financial savings for Detroit, as Davis is projected to command a three-year, $41.3 million deal in free agency, according to Spotrac. However, Rakestraw’s rookie season was plagued by injuries, leaving doubts about his readiness. This uncertainty might compel the Lions to keep Davis on board.
The Jets emerge as a logical destination for Davis for several reasons. Not only does Aaron Glenn serve as their head coach, but the Jets could also be in the market for a starting cornerback with D.J. Reed headed for free agency.
Reed has expressed skepticism about returning to New York, potentially paving the way for a Davis-Glenn reunion.
“I’m ready to go to free agency, bro,” Reed told Go Long’s Tyler Dunne. “I’m ready to see what’s next for me.”
Though Davis carries injury concerns, having never completed a full season in his career, he would be a solid replacement for Reed. Davis also offers veteran leadership and familiarity with Glenn’s defensive system, making him a valuable asset as Glenn implements his schemes in New York.
