The Detroit Lions delivered an outstanding 2024 season, finishing with a 15-2 record and securing the NFC’s No. 1 seed for the playoffs. Detroit closed the regular season with 14 wins in their last 15 games, including eight victories by margins greater than 10 points.
While the Lions’ offense has been explosive, their defense has excelled despite dealing with numerous injuries. The unit lost key starters, including cornerback Carlton Davis, who fractured his jaw in Week 15 against the Buffalo Bills. Head coach Dan Campbell indicated Tuesday that Davis is unlikely to return this season.
Davis, who joined Detroit from Tampa Bay, thrived in Aaron Glenn’s system before his injury. However, as an unrestricted free agent in 2025, his return to the Lions remains uncertain. If Davis departs or Detroit looks to strengthen their secondary, Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder predicts GM Brad Holmes will pursue Minnesota Vikings cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. in free agency.
Cornerback was a priority for Detroit in 2024, and that need persists heading into 2025. With Davis’s contract expiring and rookie Terrion Arnold experiencing growing pains, the Lions may seek another veteran. Even if Davis re-signs, Murphy could elevate the defense for another Super Bowl push, as he’s coming off a career-best season and will be among the top cornerbacks on the market.
Since joining Minnesota in 2023, Murphy has been impressive, but he reached another level in 2024. The former Washington Huskies standout recorded six interceptions, 14 passes defended, and started all 17 games. The ex-Arizona Cardinals second-round pick also allowed just an 80.5 passer rating when targeted this season.
Detroit’s first-round pick Terrion Arnold has emerged as a cornerstone player, but pairing him with Murphy would be a strategic win for Brad Holmes. At 26, Murphy’s career year with the Vikings and versatility—playing over 300 snaps in the slot and 600 as a boundary corner—makes him an ideal addition to Detroit’s secondary.
