Carlton Davis seems to be letting NFL teams know he’s ready for the best offer they can make.
The Detroit Lions cornerback, now a free agent, recently took to social media to express what he’s looking for in his next deal.
“I won’t make the same mistake twice. If you want your defense upgraded, y’all know who to pay,” Davis posted. “Turn on the tape.”
Davis is expected to be one of the most sought-after free-agent cornerbacks this offseason. According to Spotrac, he could land a contract worth at least $43.9 million over three years. Analysts have identified teams like the Minnesota Vikings, Jacksonville Jaguars, and New York Jets as potential destinations.
During his first year in Detroit, the 28-year-old played in 13 games, recording two interceptions, 56 tackles, and 11 passes defended. However, when targeted, he allowed a 77.0 passer rating—his worst in a single season. His campaign was cut short in Week 15 after suffering a fractured jaw against the Buffalo Bills.
The cornerback market was set last offseason when L’Jarius Sneed signed a four-year, $76.4 million deal with the Tennessee Titans.
After being traded to the Lions, Davis spoke confidently about his ability to lock down opposing receivers, determined to prove himself as a true No. 1 corner.
“I’ve done it before—taking top guys out of the game,” Davis said upon arriving in Detroit. “Check the film. Watch my tape in Tampa Bay. Look at how top receivers performed when I was covering them.
Not when they were in zone. Not when they were in the slot, running away from me. Not when I was in zone. When it was man-to-man, press coverage. Watch that film and then tell me what you think.”
