As the Detroit Lions’ 2024 season wraps up, general manager Brad Holmes will shift focus to the 2025 offseason. Thanks to years of strong roster building, the team doesn’t have many gaps to address.
While the offense is mostly solidified, the defense has some lingering uncertainties. One such issue is at cornerback, with veteran Carlton Davis expected to hit free agency and no guarantee of his return.
The Lions might have an internal solution in second-round pick Ennis Rakestraw Jr., but the Missouri rookie had limited playing time this season. If Davis isn’t re-signed, the Lions could look externally for reinforcements.
Josh Eaton of Yardbarker predicts the Lions could strike a deal with the Cleveland Browns for star cornerback Denzel Ward during the offseason. Eaton suggests Detroit could acquire Ward in exchange for a late first-round pick.
“With OC Ben Johnson likely earning a head-coaching job, Detroit won’t be able to rely as heavily on elite offensive production to offset their defensive vulnerabilities,” Eaton wrote. “The Browns, entering a rebuild, might trade Ward and his $100.5M contract for a late first-round pick.”
Ward has been among the NFL’s top cornerbacks for several seasons. The former No. 4 overall pick and four-time Pro Bowler allowed a 54.5% completion rate and a 92.8 passer rating in coverage in 2024. Comparatively, Davis allowed a 55.3% completion rate and a 77.0 passer rating.
A potential trade for Ward hinges on several factors. First, the Lions would need the right price, as taking on Ward’s $100.5 million contract is a major commitment.
Ward’s age and contract could be a positive, as he’s under contract through 2027 and will only be 28 years old next season. However, Detroit would also need to determine if Ward is a significant upgrade over Davis, who would be far less expensive to re-sign.
Holmes would also have to weigh the risks of relying on Rakestraw Jr. against bringing back Davis or pursuing Ward. While an aggressive move for Ward isn’t out of the question, this scenario currently seems more “unlikely” than probable.
