As Detroit Lions cornerback Carlton Davis nears free agency, the team faces significant competition to retain him, assuming they wish to re-sign him. Whether they choose to bring Davis back will hinge on his asking price and how confident the Lions are in their current roster.
If Davis moves on, the Lions may turn to other options, with Buffalo Bills cornerback Rasul Douglas emerging as a potential target. Over his career, Douglas has proven to be a reliable playmaker with multiple interceptions across five seasons, demonstrating a consistent ability to defend passes and accumulate tackles. According to TWSN’s Alex Frank, Douglas could be an excellent addition to the Lions, partnering with Brian Branch to strengthen the secondary.
Rasul Douglas: A Reliable Option or Temporary Solution?
While Douglas would certainly bring valuable depth and experience to the Lions’ secondary, questions remain as to whether he would adequately replace Davis, particularly with his lower coverage numbers in 2024. Nevertheless, Douglas provides solid value and a proven history, with experience in the slot, although he performs better on the boundary.
Douglas is expected to cost the Lions between $11-12 million annually. With $46.4 million in cap space, the Lions have the financial flexibility to afford this deal, but it remains uncertain whether they’d dedicate such a substantial portion of their budget to a cornerback who may not even start.
In the end, the Lions’ decision on Davis, Douglas, and the future of their secondary will play a significant role in their Super Bowl aspirations for 2025. Their confidence in second-round pick Ennis Rakestraw Jr. and his development will also be a crucial factor in their free agency strategy and how they shape their cornerback depth moving forward.
