DONE DEAL: Detroit Lions Sign San Francisco 49ers Cornerback with 79 Games and 199 Tackles

At 28 years old, Ya-Sin becomes the second cornerback the Lions have added this offseason, following the signing of former New York Jets defensive back D.J. Reed. Reed’s arrival helped fill the starting role left vacant after Carlton Davis departed for the New England Patriots on a lucrative contract. Meanwhile, Detroit also saw Ifeatu Melifonwu sign with the Miami Dolphins and Kindle Vildor join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, leaving gaps in both depth and special teams contributions.

Ya-Sin’s addition helps address those needs.

Last season with the 49ers, he appeared in 13 games but had a limited role, logging 62 defensive snaps and 107 on special teams. However, throughout his six-year NFL career, he has established himself as a reliable defender.

His most productive season came in 2021, his third year in the league. Playing for the Indianapolis Colts, who selected him 34th overall in the 2019 NFL Draft, Ya-Sin started eight of 13 games and recorded 31 tackles, eight pass breakups, one forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. He also excelled in coverage, holding opposing quarterbacks to a 53.3% completion rate when targeted.

Beyond his time with the Colts and 49ers, Ya-Sin has also had stints with the Baltimore Ravens and Las Vegas Raiders.