The Detroit Lions are working to fine-tune their roster as they aim for another shot at the Super Bowl. Despite being the only team never to reach the big game, Detroit hopes to change that in the near future.
With key positions to address, analysts are pointing to an ideal candidate who could help fill a critical gap.
Recently Released Cornerback Could Strengthen Detroit’s Defense
On Friday, February 14, the Miami Dolphins announced the release of several players, including cornerback Kendall Fuller. After signing a two-year, $15 million deal with Miami last offseason, Fuller struggled in 2024 due to injuries. His Pro Football Focus grade dropped from 82.8 in 2023 with Washington to 62.4 in his lone season with the Dolphins.
NFL analyst Devon Platana of Detroit Jock City believes Fuller is a player the Lions should strongly consider in free agency.
“While his Dolphins run didn’t go as intended, Fuller is still a name the Lions should keep an eye on,” Platana wrote on February 16. “Carlton Davis, Emmanuel Moseley, and three other CBs will become free agents next month, meaning it’d be wise for Detroit to already start thinking about replacement options.”
Platana also argues that despite his recent struggles, Fuller could rejuvenate his career in Detroit. “Dan Campbell and company know how to get the most out of their players, and it wouldn’t be shocking if he could help the 30-year-old cornerback return to form,” he added.
Another Potential Target for the Lions
In a February 13 article for Bleacher Report, Kristopher Knox highlighted another potential cornerback option for Detroit: Greg Newsome II of the Cleveland Browns.
The Browns, facing a projected $34.2 million cap deficit, may be forced to make tough roster decisions. Knox suggests that Cleveland could trade Newsome to clear cap space, especially since the team is in a difficult financial position.
ESPN’s Ben Solak echoed this sentiment, predicting that the Browns will move players for draft picks. “With no contending future in sight, I expect the Browns to trade players for picks,” Solak wrote. He added that both of Cleveland’s top cornerbacks—Denzel Ward and Greg Newsome II—could be on the trade block, with Newsome being the more likely option.
While both Ward and Newsome have trade value, Knox notes that moving Newsome would completely erase his $13.4 million salary from Cleveland’s books, whereas trading Ward before June 1 would actually cost the team an additional $5.8 million in cap space.
For the Lions, acquiring a young cornerback like Newsome could be a valuable move as they look to solidify their defense.
The NFL’s free agency tampering period begins on Monday, March 10.
