The Detroit Lions have built a well-rounded roster with minimal weaknesses, but one key concern on defense could emerge this offseason.
With top cornerback Carlton Davis III set to hit free agency, the Lions are likely to lose him due to financial constraints. One analyst believes Detroit could address the void with a blockbuster trade that brings an All-Pro defensive back to the team.
Lions Make Bold Move for Defensive Upgrade
Sterling Xie of Pro Football Network projects that the Lions could trade for Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs, a move that would compensate for Davis’ departure. Xie pointed out that while the Lions have young talent at the position, relying on inexperienced players could be risky for a team with championship aspirations.
“Although the Lions drafted Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw last year, expecting both second-year cornerbacks to thrive as full-time starters is a gamble for a team aiming for a Super Bowl,” Xie explained.
He also noted that Diggs may not be an ideal fit for new Cowboys defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus, whose scheme doesn’t emphasize the man coverage style in which Diggs excels.
“When Eberflus was the Bears’ head coach, Chicago ranked just 20th in man coverage usage,” Xie wrote. “Meanwhile, new Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard is expected to maintain a defensive approach similar to last season when Detroit led the league in man coverage rate (41.4%).”
Diggs has solidified his reputation as one of the NFL’s top cornerbacks during his five seasons in Dallas, recording 20 interceptions and 215 tackles. With the Cowboys dealing with cap constraints, they may be open to moving Diggs to create financial flexibility, Xie suggested.
“The Lions are in a strong financial position, boasting over $52 million in cap space. If Davis’ market value becomes too steep, Diggs remains under contract for three more seasons with a manageable $9 million cap hit in 2025,” Xie noted. “Acquiring him would likely require significant compensation, including Detroit’s second-round pick, but securing a talented 26-year-old cornerback with years of team control could be worth the investment.”
Other Veteran Alternatives for the Lions
If the Lions opt for a more cost-effective approach, they could consider other veteran options in free agency. Sports Illustrated’s Vito Chirco highlighted soon-to-be former Buffalo Bills cornerback Rasul Douglas as a potential target. Douglas is among the top defensive backs available this offseason.
Since joining the Bills at the 2023 trade deadline, Douglas has played a key role in their secondary but struggled in coverage at times last season.
“Pro Football Focus ranks Douglas as the 14th-best free agent this offseason,” Chirco wrote. “Over 24 games with Buffalo in 2023 and 2024, he recorded 87 tackles, 13 passes defended, four interceptions, two fumble recoveries, one forced fumble, and a sack.”
