The Lions are expected to focus on improving their cornerback position during the upcoming offseason, according to Adam Caplan of Pro Football Network. General Manager Brad Holmes has a significant amount of cap space, approximately $60 million, which is the seventh-highest in the league. While extending quarterback Jared Goff and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown are top priorities, Holmes should have the resources to bolster the cornerback group in free agency. Additionally, the team may look to add a cornerback in the early rounds of the draft.
Currently, the Lions’ main boundary corner with significant starting experience under contract is Cameron Sutton, who signed a three-year, $33 million deal last March. Despite making efforts to strengthen the defense, the team’s pass defense ranked poorly in 2022. While Emmanuel Moseley was added on a one-year deal, he suffered an ACL tear early in the season. The team relied on Kindle Vildor towards the end of the season and during the playoffs.
In free agency, the Lions could target players like Jaylon Johnson, L’Jarius Sneed, Kendall Fuller, Chidobe Awuzie, Stephon Gilmore, and Adoree’ Jackson. In the draft, potential cornerback prospects of interest include Quinyon Mitchell, Ennis Rakestraw Jr., and Cooper DeJean. Detroit may look to add multiple cornerbacks through the draft and make a significant free agency signing.
Jerry Jacobs, who ended the 2023 season on IR, is eligible for restricted free agency. Despite starting several games for the Lions, he may not receive a tender offer.
