Lions Sign Super Bowl-Winning Cornerback With a Name You Won’t Forget

When you hear the name DiCaprio, chances are your mind goes straight to Leonardo and icy ocean scenes. But the NFL has its own DiCaprio — and now he’s a Detroit Lion.

The Lions have added veteran cornerback DiCaprio Bootle to the roster as training camp gets underway. With injuries piling up in the secondary — including Khalil Dorsey and Stantley Thomas-Oliver — Detroit needed reinforcements, and Bootle is hoping to prove he’s more than just an extra body.

On Friday, the team officially announced several signings, including Bootle, CB Tyson Russell, and RB Jabari, as well as rookie OL Tate Ratledge. Bootle might seem like a depth addition on the surface, but there’s real opportunity here. With cornerback snaps up for grabs early in camp, the 27-year-old has a legitimate chance to compete for a spot on the 53-man roster — especially if he makes the most of these early reps.

Bootle Brings More Than Just a Memorable Name

While Bootle technically holds the 91st roster spot going into camp, he benefits from an unusual wrinkle: international rookie Ahmed Hassanein’s status through the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program gives Detroit an extra slot. So Bootle’s signing doesn’t force anyone else out — yet.

This isn’t some untested rookie or walk-on either. Bootle has real NFL experience, including a Super Bowl ring from his time with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2022. Since then, he’s spent time with the Panthers and Chargers, and he’s no stranger to fighting for a role during the summer months.

His playing style fits camp competition well. He’s not a highlight-reel guy, but he’s flexible enough to cover inside and outside, quick enough to play man coverage, and savvy enough to handle busted plays. The Lions need that kind of versatility while their secondary is short-handed.

Special Teams May Be His Key to Stick

Realistically, Bootle’s best path to staying on the roster is via special teams. With Dorsey still sidelined, the window is open — but not for long. Detroit has made a habit of rewarding players who shine in camp, and Bootle’s resume gives him a fighting chance.

There’s no guarantee he makes it to Week 1, but getting on the field is the first hurdle — and Bootle has cleared that one. Now it’s up to him to show his play can be just as memorable as his name