The Detroit Lions received some much-needed good news regarding rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold on Tuesday. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, a second medical evaluation revealed that Arnold’s shoulder injury is not season-ending. In fact, he may only be sidelined for about a month.
With Arnold’s recovery timeline looking more optimistic, Detroit may not feel the same urgency to pursue another cornerback. However, if Arnold does end up on injured reserve, signing a short-term replacement would still make sense — especially given that Ennis Rakestraw Jr., D.J. Reed, and Khalil Dorsey are also dealing with injuries.
In a recent piece, Sports Illustrated’s Emmett Matasovsky listed seven external cornerback options the Lions could consider. One of the most intriguing names mentioned was Jerry Jacobs, a familiar face in Detroit.
“Jacobs is another veteran who understands the culture in Detroit, having played during the first three years under Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell,” Matasovsky wrote.
Jacobs started 12 games during Detroit’s 2023 NFC Championship run, recording three interceptions and 55 total tackles. Despite his strong start, his playing time declined late that season — losing his starting spot after Week 14 and appearing sparingly afterward. He was inactive for the Lions’ playoff games and has not played in a regular-season contest since.
Although he was out of football in 2024, Jacobs has stayed in shape and worked out for both the Dallas Cowboys and Indianapolis Colts this summer. He also had a brief stint with the Los Angeles Rams, though he didn’t see any game action.
Why Jerry Jacobs Makes Sense for Detroit
If Arnold’s recovery indeed keeps him out for just a few weeks, the Lions likely won’t rush to sign a big-name defensive back. But adding a veteran with system familiarity and starting experience would be a logical move. Jacobs checks both boxes.
Having started 29 career games, all in a Lions uniform, Jacobs knows defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn’s scheme well and could step in quickly if needed. Provided he remains in good football condition, his return could stabilize Detroit’s secondary depth without long-term implications once Arnold is back.
Aside from Jacobs, Matasovsky also floated the idea of bringing back C.J. Gardner-Johnson, but he has since signed with the Baltimore Ravens. Other potential names on the radar include DiCaprio Bootle, Cameron Dantzler, Melvin Smith Jr., Fabian Moreau, and Tre Hawkins III.
For now, the Lions’ improved outlook on Arnold’s shoulder buys them time — but if setbacks arise, a reunion with Jerry Jacobs could be the smartest next move.
