The Detroit Lions made significant efforts to strengthen their secondary during the 2024 offseason. They acquired veteran cornerback Carlton Davis through trade, drafted two cornerbacks, and signed another, all in an attempt to shore up their defensive backfield. The results have been positive so far, with Davis and rookie Terrion Arnold performing well on the outside, while Amik Robertson has excelled in the slot. However, concerns may arise for the Lions in 2025, particularly as Davis is set to become a free agent, and there’s uncertainty about whether rookie Ennis Rakestraw Jr. can step up as a long-term solution, given his limited role so far.
With the future of their cornerback position in question, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox suggests that the Lions could target Buffalo Bills cornerback Rasul Douglas, who is in the final year of his three-year, $21 million contract. Douglas would be a solid addition for Detroit, as the team currently ranks 29th in the league in passing yards allowed. His potential availability could help Detroit improve its secondary, especially if the team ends up losing Davis in free agency next year.
Douglas is a proven and capable starter, known for his versatility in the secondary. Throughout his career, he has shown an ability to play both on the boundary and in the slot, making him an appealing option for a Lions team that values flexibility in its defensive backs. While Douglas has allowed a completion rate of 60% and a passer rating of 97.9 when targeted in 2024, these numbers are fairly typical for a cornerback, and he remains a reliable contributor to his team.
If Davis leaves in 2025, the Lions could find themselves without a clear answer at cornerback, and Rakestraw Jr.’s development remains uncertain. In this scenario, adding a player like Douglas would provide valuable depth and stability to the unit. As a stopgap, Douglas could give the Lions a reliable veteran presence while they continue to evaluate Rakestraw’s potential or pursue another long-term solution at cornerback.
Ultimately, bringing in a veteran like Douglas would allow the Lions to hedge against the possibility that their current cornerbacks aren’t able to meet expectations long-term. With Davis’ future in Detroit uncertain and Rakestraw’s development still a question mark, Douglas could offer the Lions an affordable, experienced option to maintain a competitive secondary in 2025 and beyond
