The Detroit Lions defense has been outstanding in 2024, surrendering just 20.1 points per game and 98.4 rushing yards per game during the regular season, both ranking among the NFL’s top ten. Securing the NFC North title and the conference’s No. 1 seed with a Week 18 victory over the Minnesota Vikings, the Lions earned a first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Detroit’s defensive dominance is even more impressive considering the injuries they’ve faced. Aaron Glenn’s unit lost several key starters, including cornerback Carlton Davis, who suffered a jaw fracture in Week 15 against the Buffalo Bills. Head coach Dan Campbell has stated he doesn’t expect Davis to return for the playoffs.
Before his injury, Davis was having a strong season but is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. If Detroit can’t re-sign him, DraftKings Network’s Blake Krass predicts the team will select Ole Miss cornerback Trey Amos in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
“The Lions had the best offense in the NFL this season, so they are likely to target a defensive player in the draft,” Krass explained. “Their run defense was elite, but they could use secondary reinforcements, making Ole Miss cornerback Trey Amos a perfect choice. A first-team All-SEC player, Amos could be an immediate impact player for Detroit.”
Amos excelled in 2024 with three interceptions and 13 pass breakups. On 62 targets, the 22-year-old allowed a 51.6% completion rate and a 54.5 passer rating when targeted, showcasing his ability to lock down opposing receivers.
The Draft Network’s Keith Sanchez offered further analysis:
“Amos has the ideal size, physicality, and mental traits to succeed as an NFL cornerback. While his coverage technique needs fine-tuning, he fits well in a zone-heavy scheme. With his combination of size and football intelligence, Amos has the potential to become a reliable starter.”
Should the Lions part ways with Davis, replacing him with Amos would be a smart move by general manager Brad Holmes. Pairing Amos with 2024 first-round pick Terrion Arnold, who has had a standout rookie year, could give Detroit a dynamic, young cornerback duo.
