Several players are set to hit the free agency market this offseason, including cornerback Carlton Davis. The veteran had an impressive 2024 season before suffering a season-ending jaw injury in the team’s Week 15 loss to the Buffalo Bills.
Davis is expected to have a competitive market in free agency and is likely to earn a significant payday. Spotrac projects the Lions’ free agent will secure a three-year deal worth $41.3 million, while Pro Football Focus suggests the figure could reach $42 million over three years.
Many teams will pursue Davis this offseason, but Yahoo Sports’ Cam Garrity believes the 6-foot-1, 206-pound corner should be one of the New England Patriots’ top free-agent targets.
“Detroit Lions cornerback Carlton Davis is another potential target for the Patriots’ defense. Davis brings a physical presence in both coverage and run support, which fits perfectly with the system new defensive coordinator Terrell Williams will want to establish.
Davis is still in his prime and should command a lucrative contract. His addition would allow Jonathan Jones and Marcus Jones to play more naturally in the slot, while pairing Davis with Christian Gonzalez to strengthen the outside coverage.”
The Patriots are projected to have the most cap space in the NFL this offseason at $120 million, according to Over the Cap. With several roster needs, adding another cornerback opposite 2024 second-team All-Pro Christian Gonzalez should be a priority for New England.
Signing Davis would be a smart move for the Patriots. The former Tampa Bay Buccaneer would serve as CB2 opposite Gonzalez, and at 28 years old, he still has plenty of potential.
Davis started 13 games for the Lions in 2024, recording two interceptions and 11 passes defended. The Super Bowl LV champion allowed just a 59.7% completion rate and an 87.9 passer rating when targeted.
While Detroit will likely attempt to retain Davis this offseason, if the 2018 second-round pick decides to leave the Motor City or if the Lions opt not to bring him back, New England should be among the top suitors for the former Auburn standout.
The Patriots have more than enough cap space to sign Davis to a deal and address other team needs, and pairing Gonzalez with a seasoned veteran who has ample playoff experience would be a savvy move by general manager Eliot Wolf.
