The Detroit Lions have taken some significant hits to their secondary in recent weeks, raising concerns about their depth as they approach the postseason. One analyst believes the team may need to seek veteran help to solidify their defense and ensure a strong playoff run.
The Lions recently placed cornerbacks Carlton Davis III and Khalil Dorsey on injured reserve, a blow to an already thin secondary that has been battling injuries throughout the season. With the playoffs around the corner, losing two key contributors leaves the Lions vulnerable in a critical area of the field.
While the Lions do have internal options to step up, Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder suggested that Detroit should consider tapping into the free-agent market to add more experience and depth to the roster.
Lions Could Add Accomplished Veteran
Despite currently holding the No. 1 seed in the NFC, the Lions are in a tight race and cannot afford to ease up in the final two weeks of the regular season. The team’s upcoming matchups, including a crucial game against the Minnesota Vikings, could determine whether Detroit secures a first-round bye or enters the playoffs as a wild-card team.
Holder emphasized the importance of strengthening the secondary for this critical stretch and beyond.
“At this point, the club should be looking into any veteran available to give the secondary more options heading into the playoffs. A couple of names to float around would be Patrick Peterson or Xavien Howard,” Holder wrote.
Peterson, an eight-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro, brings a wealth of experience and leadership. In 2023, he started 16 games for the Pittsburgh Steelers, recording 42 tackles and 11 passes defensed.
His familiarity with NFC North offenses, from his previous stint with the Minnesota Vikings, could provide the Lions with valuable insight and stability in the secondary.
Adding a veteran like Peterson would not only fill the immediate gap but also offer a mentor for the younger players in the Lions’ secondary, helping them navigate the high-pressure environment of playoff football.
