The Detroit Lions have exceeded expectations on defense this season. Even with numerous injuries, especially in the secondary, defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard has kept his unit performing at a high level.
Through nine weeks, Detroit ranks 13th in points allowed and 8th in total yards surrendered — an impressive feat given their personnel issues. Still, the team’s lack of depth, particularly at cornerback, remains a major concern.
With DJ Reed, Ennis Rakestraw Jr., and Khalil Dorsey all sidelined on injured reserve, the Lions’ cornerback rotation is dangerously thin. Terrion Arnold recently made his return from injury, but the overall depth chart still looks shaky. Luckily, a new opportunity just opened up on the free-agent market. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, veteran cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. has officially been cleared to return to football activities — making him an intriguing potential signing for Detroit.
Why Samuel Makes Sense for the Lions
Samuel missed most of last season, appearing in just four games due to recurring stinger symptoms in his shoulders. He later underwent spinal fusion surgery, and reports now indicate that he’s fully recovered and ready to resume playing.
While the former Los Angeles Charger hasn’t consistently met the lofty expectations he entered the league with, Samuel has flashed elite coverage ability and high football IQ when healthy. His smaller frame and limited tackling strength have kept him from being a truly physical defender, and he’s best suited to play exclusively on the outside. Even so, his speed, athleticism, and instincts give him a higher ceiling than any of Detroit’s current healthy corners.
At the moment, the Lions start Terrion Arnold and Amik Robertson on the perimeter, with Arthur Maulet and Avonte Maddox handling slot duties. Both Arnold and Robertson struggled mightily in Sunday’s loss to the Minnesota Vikings, with Pro Football Focus ranking them among Detroit’s lowest-graded defenders.
Arnold, despite recording his first career interception, is rated 101st out of 107 eligible cornerbacks by PFF. He’s been playing through a nagging shoulder issue — one that was initially thought to be season-ending — and it clearly affected his performance. Against Minnesota, he missed three tackles and committed multiple penalties.
Robertson hasn’t provided much relief, either. He’s allowed nearly 67% completions, four touchdowns, and a 117.2 passer rating in coverage. His skill set might fit better inside rather than on the boundary.
Given these struggles, Samuel could instantly become the most capable outside cornerback on the roster. His addition would provide a much-needed spark to a banged-up secondary without costing the team draft picks or major cap space.
While Detroit has focused more on reinforcing its offensive line and pass rush in recent weeks, the front office would be wise to explore a low-risk, high-upside move by bringing in Asante Samuel Jr. — a potential difference-maker for a defense already performing above expectations.
