The Detroit Lions face a challenging offseason after a disappointing divisional round loss to the Washington Commanders. General manager Brad Holmes will need to address several issues in order to strengthen a roster that struggled in the playoffs. This may involve making some difficult decisions, including potentially cutting players to create more cap space.
Detroit is projected to have approximately $46.8 million in cap space for the upcoming offseason, according to Over the Cap. While the team has room to make moves in free agency, they could also consider cutting players to free up additional cap room.
One potential cut candidate is cornerback Amik Robertson, who signed a two-year, $9.2 million contract with the Lions last offseason. Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox identified Robertson as a player the Lions could part ways with in order to create more cap flexibility.
Robertson was given an opportunity to step up due to the Lions’ injuries at the cornerback position. He demonstrated his versatility by playing both inside and outside, contributing solidly to the defense. However, the Lions will likely reassess their entire cornerback group during the offseason.
Carlton Davis, a potential free agent, will be on the Lions’ radar as they evaluate their cornerback depth. In addition, younger players like Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. are part of the team’s future plans. The Lions could opt to move on from Robertson if they believe that the $4.8 million in cap space they would save by cutting him is worth the decision.
During the regular season, Robertson started four games and showed he could be effective in coverage, allowing a completion rate of just 56.9% on 79 targets. Unfortunately, he was injured in the first quarter of the Lions’ playoff loss, suffering a broken humerus, but he is expected to be healthy and ready for offseason workouts.
If the Lions decide to cut Robertson, they would save $4.8 million in cap space while incurring only $1.65 million in dead money, per Over the Cap. While the savings could be beneficial to the team’s financial flexibility, cutting Robertson may not be the best move.
Robertson proved himself to be a valuable depth piece throughout the season, and he was also a strong leader in the locker room. Given his contributions and the need for depth in the secondary, the Lions should consider other methods of saving money and bring Robertson back for the 2025 season.
